it was requested

USAGE SUMMARY

'it was requested' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a request that has been made in the past. For example: "It was requested that all employees submit their time sheets by the end of the day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was requested as well that the government should not change its political style without voting it first.

Wikipedia

Last year it was requested 339 times.

Independent

It was requested under FOI law by an FT journalist.

The Guardian

The E.P.A has been working on the report since 2010, when it was requested by Congress.

The New York Times

This article was commissioned after it was requested in a You tell us thread.

The Guardian - Opinion

This article was commissioned after it was requested by backtothepoint in the You tell us thread.

The Guardian - Opinion

Nato announced the extraordinary session yesterday, saying it was requested by Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen.

The Guardian

Mr. DiNapoli's aides said the check was paid out automatically by computer when it was requested by the Assembly's computer.

The New York Times

In fact, it was requested by unions who object to paying more through their own health policies.

The New York Times

Universal Studios helped some cinema chains with the cost of extra security when it was requested to do so.

The Guardian - Film

It was requested twice in the days after the storm, when comforting, dollar-stretching soup was what was needed.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was requested", specify who made the request if relevant to provide context and clarity. For example, "It was requested by the UN..." is more informative than "It was requested...".

Common error

Avoid overusing passive voice constructions like "it was requested" without a clear subject. While grammatically correct, excessive passive voice can make your writing sound vague and less engaging. Consider rephrasing to use active voice when possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was requested" functions as a passive construction, indicating that a request was made. Ludwig confirms this usage through numerous examples. This grammatical structure allows the writer to emphasize the action of requesting rather than the actor performing the request.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it was requested" is a versatile phrase used to indicate that a request has been made. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, especially in news, scientific, and academic writing. While typically neutral to formal in register, it is essential to consider the context and clarify the source of the request for enhanced clarity and impact. When using the phrase, consider specifying who made the request whenever it adds clarity to the sentence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a request was made

Focuses on the action of requesting rather than specifying who made the request.

it was asked

A more direct and simple way of saying something was requested, implies a question or query.

it was required

Suggests a stronger necessity than a simple request, implying a mandatory action.

an application was submitted

Specifically refers to the act of formally submitting an application.

a demand was issued

Conveys a forceful and authoritative request, often leaving little room for negotiation.

it was proposed

Suggests a suggestion or recommendation was put forward for consideration.

a motion was put forward

Implies a formal suggestion or proposal, typically in a meeting or debate.

it was appealed

Conveys that something was formally requested or challenged, especially in a legal context.

an order was given

Highlights the authoritative nature of a request, framing it as an instruction.

a call was made

Describes the act of initiating communication or requesting action.

FAQs

How can I use "it was requested" in a sentence?

You can use "it was requested" to indicate that something was asked for. For example, "It was requested that the report be submitted by Friday."

What's the difference between "it was requested" and "it was asked"?

"It was requested" is generally more formal than "it was asked". You might use "it was asked" in informal contexts, while "it was requested" is suitable for formal reports and communications.

What can I say instead of "it was requested"?

You can use alternatives like "a request was made", "it was asked", or "it was required" depending on the context.

Is it necessary to always specify who made the request when using "it was requested"?

No, it's not always necessary, but providing the source of the request adds clarity. If the requestor is important or relevant, include them (e.g., "it was requested by the committee"). If the source is unimportant or obvious, "it was requested" is sufficient.