it is not a request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is not a request" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to clarify that a statement or directive is mandatory rather than optional. Example: "Please ensure that all reports are submitted by Friday; it is not a request."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

It is not a request.

The New York Times

It is not a request which will endear him to the club or its fans.

Independent

It is not a request with which Cameron or Ed Miliband is frequently confronted.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

It isn't a request for childhood memories or a rundown of academic prizes won since junior high school, but a call for a brief overview of what you bring to the table.

Forbes

It was not a request from a stranger.

The Guardian

He was to report for questioning in the morning — and it was not a request.

The New York Times

He told Nadia to uncover her head, and when she asked why he said it was not a request.

The New Yorker

What's terrific about the idea is that it's not a request for lists of the greatest books about movies, but an invitation to empirical responses.

The New Yorker

"I don't mind it, but I'd like to make clear it's not a request," he says, with a nervous grin.

The Guardian - Film

"It was not a request for an investigation," Coderre said.

Vice

It's not a question and it's not a request.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is not a request" to clearly establish expectations, especially when communicating directives or instructions that must be followed without exception. This prevents misunderstanding and ensures compliance.

Common error

Avoid using "it is not a request" when a genuine request is intended. Overusing this phrase can create a hostile or overly authoritarian tone, damaging rapport and discouraging collaboration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is not a request" functions as a declarative statement used to negate the interpretation of a statement as optional. It asserts a mandatory action or directive, removing any ambiguity about whether compliance is expected.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is not a request" serves as a forceful declaration to emphasize that something is mandatory rather than optional. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's grammatical correctness. While not overly common, this phrase appears primarily in news and media, conveying a neutral to formal tone. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the intended message, avoiding overuse to maintain positive relationships. Alternatives such as "it is an order" or "it is mandatory" can be used, depending on the context and desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is an order

Emphasizes a higher level of authority and obligation.

it is a command

Similar to 'it is an order', suggesting direct authority.

it is mandatory

Highlights the compulsory nature of the action.

it is compulsory

Like 'it is mandatory', stresses the required nature.

it is required

Indicates that something must be done.

it is non-negotiable

Stresses that there is no room for discussion or alteration.

it is an imperative

Implies a critical necessity or duty.

it is a directive

Suggests an official instruction or order.

it is not optional

Directly contrasts with a request, clarifying that there is no choice.

it must be done

Simple and direct way of expressing obligation.

FAQs

How can I use "it is not a request" in a sentence?

Use "it is not a request" to emphasize that something is mandatory, not optional. For example, "Submitting the report by Friday "it is not a request", it's a requirement."

What's a less direct alternative to "it is not a request"?

If you want to be less forceful, consider using phrases like "it is essential", "it is important that", or "please ensure that" instead of "it is not a request".

Is "it is not a request" appropriate for all situations?

No, "it is not a request" is best suited for situations where compliance is crucial and there's little room for negotiation. Avoid using it in collaborative or friendly contexts where a gentler approach is more effective.

What is the difference between "it is not a request" and "it is a demand"?

"It is not a request" clarifies that something is mandatory. "It is a demand" implies a stronger assertion of authority and can sound more aggressive or less polite. Choose the phrasing that best fits the tone and context.