petitioned for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "petitioned for" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used when someone formally requests something, often in a legal or official context. Example: "The citizens petitioned for a new park to be built in their neighborhood."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Mr. Boumediene petitioned for his release.

The New York Times

They petitioned for face-to-face sessions.

The New York Times

Instead, JetBlue petitioned for slots at Kennedy.

The New York Times

An industry alliance petitioned for reconsideration.

The New Yorker

The sisters had unsuccessfully petitioned for compassionate release to attend their mother's funeral.

The New Yorker

The American Bird Conservancy and the Center for Biological Diversity had petitioned for the ban.

The New York Times

The team owners petitioned for a writ of certiorari to the Supreme Court last Friday.

The New York Times

She petitioned for her brother and his wife to join her.

The New York Times - Magazine

Once they finally arrived, they petitioned for their children to follow them.

The New York Times

In 2003, he successfully petitioned for his gun rights in Snohomish County Superior Court.

The New York Times

Those who petitioned for his recall in 2003 had their names added to a blacklist.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "petitioned for" when you want to emphasize a formal, written request, especially to an authority or organization.

Common error

Avoid using "petitioned for" in casual contexts where a simple request is sufficient. Choose more informal alternatives like "asked for" or "requested" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "petitioned for" is a verb phrase acting as the main verb within a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used to describe the action of formally requesting something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

30%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "petitioned for" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to indicate a formal request made to an authority. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage across different contexts. While generally professional and neutral, its use should be reserved for situations where a formal tone is appropriate, avoiding overuse in casual conversation. Alternatives like "requested" or "asked for" are more suitable for informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

requested

A more general term for asking for something, lacking the formal connotation of a petition.

sought

A more formal synonym for 'requested', implying a deliberate and earnest search or appeal.

applied for

Suggests a formal application process, often for a specific benefit or opportunity.

appealed for

Implies a strong and urgent request, often to a higher authority or in a situation of need.

advocated for

Implies active support and promotion of a particular cause or policy.

lobbied for

Suggests an attempt to influence a decision through advocacy and persuasion.

asked for

The simplest and most direct way to request something, lacking the formality of "petitioned for".

campaigned for

Indicates an organized effort to achieve a specific goal, often involving public support.

sued for

Initiating a formal lawsuit to obtain a specific right or remedy

bid for

Making an offer in an auction or competition.

FAQs

What does "petitioned for" mean?

The phrase "petitioned for" means to formally request something, usually in writing, from someone in authority. It implies a structured process and a degree of formality.

How to use "petitioned for" in a sentence?

You can use "petitioned for" in a sentence like this: "The citizens "petitioned for" a new traffic light at the intersection."

What can I say instead of "petitioned for"?

You can use alternatives like "requested", "applied for", or "sought" depending on the context.

Is "petitioned for" formal language?

Yes, "petitioned for" is considered formal language. It's best used in official or legal contexts where a formal request is being made. Using "asked for" is more appropriate in informal contexts.