on special request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on special request" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something is available or can be done only if specifically asked for. Example: "The dish is not on the menu but can be prepared on special request."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Small group/one-on-one sessions are available on special request.

The Telegraph

Smith Barney does offer after-hours trades, but only on special request.

The New York Times

In the meantime, the department has stopped culling except on special request, aside from the two townships involved in the HSI project where it is banned outright.

The Guardian

Few of them preach, and those but seldom, and only on special request; after which donations of clothing, and c. are always made to them.

Cornell University

The collection was donated to the Uffizi in the late 1950's, but the gallery had no room to show it, so the paintings were stored in the nearby Pitti Palace, where scholars could view them only on special request.

The New York Times - Arts

In Germany PCR is used on special request and in the Netherlands PCR is used by specific laboratories.

BMC Infectious Diseases

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

That ambition extends to giving holidaymakers more information on where they are going, including tips on how to make the most of their destination and cabin crew members with iPads –trialled this year and due to be rolled in 2015 – who will be able to pass on special requests and information to customer service teams at resorts.

The Guardian - Travel

He had only one special request.

The New York Times - Style

With customers from around the world, all types of special requests based on diet and religion need to be accommodated.

Forbes

Publicists get a lot of special requests.

The New York Times - Magazine

Perry was on the program by special request of the Queen.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on special request" when emphasizing that a service or item is not routinely offered but can be accommodated if specifically asked for. This adds a sense of exclusivity or personalization.

Common error

Avoid using "on special request" when something is already standard practice. Doing so can sound pretentious or create unnecessary complexity. Reserve it for genuinely exceptional cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on special request" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate under what condition an action is performed or a service is provided. As Ludwig AI indicates, it specifies that something is not routinely available but can be obtained if specifically asked for.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on special request" is a grammatically correct phrase used to indicate that a service or item is available only if specifically asked for. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is suitable for various contexts, ranging from news and media to science and academia. While it is not exceedingly common, its usage is consistent and clear. When writing, remember to use it to denote something genuinely exceptional and avoid overuse. Alternative phrases such as "upon request" or "by request" can be considered depending on the nuance you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

upon request

Omits "special", implying any request suffices.

by request

Shorter form, maintaining the core meaning.

if requested

Expresses conditionality more explicitly.

available upon demand

Highlights the availability aspect.

on demand

A more concise expression of availability.

subject to request

Emphasizes that the action depends on a request.

only by arrangement

Focuses on the need for prior agreement.

with prior arrangement

Highlights the importance of advance notice.

by appointment only

Specifies that service is only available with a scheduled time.

custom-made

Emphasizes the tailored nature of the offering.

FAQs

How can I use "on special request" in a sentence?

You can use "on special request" to indicate that something is available or done only when specifically asked for. For example: "The chef can prepare a vegetarian meal "on special request"".

What is a similar phrase to "on special request"?

A similar phrase is "upon request", which also indicates something is provided when asked for but doesn't emphasize the 'special' or non-routine nature as much.

Is it better to say "on special request" or "by special request"?

Both "on special request" and "by special request" are grammatically correct, but ""on special request"" is more common. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Can I use "at special request" instead of "on special request"?

While less common, "at special request" is also acceptable and means the same thing as ""on special request"". It is often a matter of personal preference.