i humbly submit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I humbly submit" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in formal contexts, such as legal documents, academic papers, or respectful requests, to express deference or politeness when presenting an idea or proposal. Example: "In light of the evidence presented, I humbly submit that the committee consider my proposal for funding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Most of the others, I humbly submit, have already discredited themselves or are on their way into the dustbin of history.

The Economist

So, may I humbly submit a suggestion: Yes, we should absolutely take startups like Path to task for their lapses.

TechCrunch

I humbly submit that you should take a stand for what your company represents and how it represents itself.

TechCrunch

And this trigger warning, I humbly submit, is all we need.

Huffington Post

Now I humbly submit: that's not only cool, that's cool in all caps.

Huffington Post

I humbly submit we should embrace both at the same time.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Therefore, I humbly present a (no doubt incomplete) catalogue of Ms Pig's worst excesses.

The Guardian - Opinion

I've decided to humbly submit my advice on how to approach us in requesting a profile – I think this advice will work well with other bloggers as well.

TechCrunch

I hereby not so humbly submit to you proposals for some more feisty combos.

Huffington Post

More than 25 years of music ardor means my palate is still pretty wide and endlessly deep and I not-so-humbly submit that I know well of what I speak.

Huffington Post

So while the sun may not shine and the rain often dulls the spirit, we humbly submit a first cut at The London List.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing cover letters, use "I humbly submit" to show deference and respect, particularly when addressing senior figures or making bold claims about your skills and potential.

Common error

While "I humbly submit" is a perfectly acceptable phrase, avoid using it in casual conversations or informal writing. Its formality can sound out of place and even sarcastic if used inappropriately. Consider using more casual alternatives like "I think" or "I suggest" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I humbly submit" functions as a discourse marker introducing a statement, opinion, or proposal with a tone of deference and politeness. Ludwig examples show it commonly introducing suggestions or requests. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Formal & Business

16%

Science

12%

Less common in

Social Media

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I humbly submit" is a valuable tool for conveying politeness and respect in formal communication. As shown by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and commonly used across various reputable sources, predominantly in News & Media. While "I humbly submit" is suitable for formal writing, it's best to avoid it in casual settings where it can sound overly formal or even sarcastic. Consider alternatives like "I respectfully submit" or "I suggest" based on context. Remember to use "I humbly submit" judiciously to maintain a balanced and appropriate tone in your writing and speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I respectfully submit

Replaces "humbly" with "respectfully", emphasizing politeness and consideration.

With all due respect, I submit

Highlights respectfulness before presenting a potentially differing view.

I humbly propose

Replaces "submit" with "propose", focusing on the act of suggesting a plan or idea.

I modestly suggest

Uses "modestly" and "suggest" to downplay the speaker's confidence in their proposal.

It is my humble opinion

Emphasizes that the statement is a personal opinion presented without arrogance.

It is my considered opinion

Indicates that the opinion is well thought out and presented without arrogance.

I venture to suggest

Indicates a hesitance to put forth an idea, implying the speaker is aware it may be contentious.

If I may, I'd like to suggest

Adds a preliminary request for permission to speak, increasing politeness.

I would like to suggest

A more direct and less formal way of offering a suggestion.

I put forth for consideration

Presents an idea or proposal for evaluation and deliberation.

FAQs

How can I use "I humbly submit" in a sentence?

You can use "I humbly submit" to introduce a suggestion or opinion, especially in formal contexts. For example, "I have analyzed all available data and "I humbly submit" that our current strategy requires revision".

What's a more casual alternative to "I humbly submit"?

In less formal settings, you can use phrases like "I suggest", "I think", or "in my opinion". These alternatives convey your ideas without the formality of "I humbly submit".

Is it ever inappropriate to use "I humbly submit"?

Yes, using "I humbly submit" in informal conversations or sarcastic contexts can sound out of place and insincere. Reserve it for formal or professional communications where respect and politeness are valued.

What's the difference between "I humbly submit" and "I respectfully submit"?

Both phrases convey politeness, but "I humbly submit" emphasizes deference and a lower status relative to the audience, while "I respectfully submit" focuses more on showing consideration for differing opinions. They are often interchangeable but carry slightly different connotations.