make a request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'make a request' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to politely ask someone to do something. For example, "Please make a request if you would like to make any changes to the document."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Contact Brighton council to make a request.

The Guardian

The balance did not make a request.

The New York Times

Anyone can make a request, not just mobsters.

The New York Times

It was up to victims' relatives to make a request.

The New York Times

Go ahead and call him and make a request.

The New York Times

It's advisable to make a request well in advance.

The New York Times - Travel

The president calls Mr. Comey to make a request.

The New York Times

2. Include deadlines when you first make a request.

Harvard Business Review

Can I make a request for a specific Evening cohort?

University of California, Berkeley

Please submit a ticket to make a request.

Columbia University

The new government is preparing to make a request to the European Commission for more time.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "make a request", be clear and specific about what you are asking for. This ensures the recipient understands your needs and can respond appropriately.

Common error

While "make a request" is generally acceptable, avoid using it in very informal settings where simpler alternatives like "ask" or "can you" would sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a request" functions as a verb phrase, where "make" acts as a light verb, combining with the noun "request" to express the action of formally asking for something. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage, as shown in the examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Academia

33%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

7%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "make a request" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression for formally asking for something. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage across various domains. It is most commonly found in news, academic, and science contexts, indicating its suitability for professional and official communications. While versatile, simpler alternatives may be more appropriate for informal conversations. Understanding these nuances ensures effective and contextually appropriate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ask for assistance

A more general phrase for seeking help or support.

submit an application

Formal; often used in official or professional settings for requesting something tangible or intangible.

put in a petition

Suggests a more formal and often written request, typically for something specific.

seek approval

Used when needing a formal agreement or permission.

lodge an appeal

Specifically refers to a formal request for a review of a decision.

put forward a proposal

Suggests a formal submission of an idea or plan for consideration.

file a claim

Typically used in the context of insurance or legal matters, denoting a formal demand for compensation.

place an order

Used specifically when requesting goods or services, usually in a commercial context.

send in a query

Implies a request for information or clarification.

express interest

Indicates a desire or inclination towards something, functioning as a request for further engagement.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "make a request"?

You can use alternatives like "ask for", "submit an application", or "seek approval" depending on the context.

How to use "make a request" in a sentence?

You can use "make a request" to formally ask for something. For example, "Please make a request if you need additional resources".

Is it better to "make a request" or just "ask"?

"Make a request" is generally more formal and suitable for professional or official contexts, while "ask" is more casual and appropriate for informal situations.

Which is correct: "make a request" or "do a request"?

"Make a request" is the correct and idiomatic expression. "Do a request" is not standard English.