last-minute request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "last-minute request" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a request made at the final moment or just before a deadline. Example: "I received a last-minute request from my boss to prepare a presentation for tomorrow's meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

The FBI reopened its background check into Kavanaugh last week following a last-minute request by Sen. Jeff Flake, who called for a delay of Kavanaugh's confirmation vote so that the FBI could properly investigate the allegations against the Supreme Court nominee.

Vice

Ford testified about her memory of the assault last week and, because of a last-minute request by Flake, Republicans postponed Senate votes to give the Federal Bureau of Investigation more time to investigate Ford's claim.

Huffington Post

Her last-minute request to visit the Thai-Myanmar border last week took the Myanmar and Thai governments by surprise.

The New York Times

Also, instead of being annoyed with her for her thoughtless last-minute request, would you consider initiating a friendly chat?

The New York Times

A last-minute request, such as this one, puts unnecessary pressure on the hosts; they shouldn't be asked to take responsibility for someone else's lack of planning.

The New York Times

And it is also O.K. to decline a last-minute request to add to the guest list, even with an offer to pay.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Nine advertisers agreed to the last-minute requests, including Alberto-Culver, DreamWorks and Pfizer.

The New York Times

Networks covering baseball often make last-minute requests — none more than MLB Network, which broadcasts from just down the hall.

The New York Times - Sports

The church hall was hurriedly refurbished and equipped for teaching during the school holidays, after numerous primary schools across Camden rejected last-minute requests from the council to take an extra class of children this term.

Independent

What she knows is that she's getting constant last-minute requests for after-school and weekend help, with no reciprocation offered — and no contributions toward snack and activity money, either.

The New York Times

As Mr. Weisberg copes with sound system failures, an overwhelmed security team and performers' last-minute requests for per diems and "herb," his mother and aunt wrangle an avalanche of cash in the tiny ticket booth.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Instead of getting frustrated by a "last-minute request", consider initiating a friendly chat to understand the reasons behind the delay. This can foster better communication and collaboration.

Common error

Avoid automatically assuming a "last-minute request" is critical without proper validation. Take a moment to understand the context and impact of the request before prioritizing it to prevent unnecessary stress and wasted effort.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "last-minute request" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, referring to a request that is made with very little advance notice. As seen in Ludwig, this phrase commonly describes situations where urgent action is needed.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "last-minute request" is a commonly used and grammatically correct term that describes a request made with little prior notice. According to Ludwig, it's often used to convey a sense of urgency, most frequently in news and media contexts. While the phrase is generally neutral in tone, it's important to consider the context and impact of such requests. Alternatives like "urgent appeal" or "immediate requisition" can be used in more formal settings. Remember to assess the urgency and impact of "last-minute requests" before committing, and strive to minimize them through proactive planning and clear communication. Finally, Ludwig AI confirms the usability of the expression in different written contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

urgent appeal

Emphasizes the pressing nature of the request.

eleventh-hour plea

Highlights the lateness of the request, made just before a deadline.

sudden solicitation

Focuses on the unexpected and somewhat formal nature of the request.

immediate requisition

Stresses the urgency and official nature of the request.

short-notice application

Highlights the lack of advance notice for the request.

expedited order

Conveys the need for a fast and prioritized response to the request.

rush demand

Highlights the urgency and high priority of the request.

late submission

Focuses on the timing of the request, indicating it was made close to a deadline.

emergency application

Highlights the critical nature and urgent need for the request.

spur-of-the-moment asking

Emphasizes the unplanned and spontaneous nature of the request.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "last-minute request" in a formal setting?

In a formal context, consider using phrases like "urgent appeal", "immediate requisition", or "expedited order" to convey a similar meaning with a more professional tone.

What's the difference between "last-minute request" and "urgent request"?

While both phrases imply a need for prompt action, "last-minute request" emphasizes the timing of the request being close to a deadline, whereas "urgent request" highlights the importance and time-sensitivity of the matter, regardless of when it was made.

Is it appropriate to decline a "last-minute request"?

Yes, it is acceptable to decline a "last-minute request" if you have legitimate reasons, such as prior commitments or insufficient resources. Communicate your limitations clearly and offer alternative solutions if possible.

What can I do to minimize "last-minute requests" in the future?

To reduce the occurrence of "last-minute requests", promote proactive planning, set clear deadlines, and maintain open communication channels. Encourage stakeholders to anticipate needs and submit requests well in advance.