politely requested

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "politely requested" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when making a formal or courteous request to someone. Example: "The committee has politely requested that all members submit their reports by the end of the week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Snow soon politely requested that he present the news from Germany.

Independent

"Anyone breaching it may be approached and politely requested not to smoke.

The Guardian

Incredibly, she offered no apology as I politely requested that she return my personal belongings.

The Guardian

(They also politely requested that photographers refrain from taking pictures of child soldiers).

The New York Times

After applause followed each of four Schubert songs, Mr. Quasthoff politely requested that no one clap during the Martin cycle.

The New York Times - Arts

Leaning over the gentleman sitting next to him, I politely requested Monsieur Jourdan's autograph, which he graciously provided.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

How do I politely request that she stop?

The New York Times

Then, send a brief letter politely requesting the review.

The New York Times

It is politely requesting that Page 3 be discontinued.

The Economist

(Invitations to Iranian guests included an insert, in Farsi, politely requesting that they observe Islamic dress).

The New Yorker

A company of Lebanese soldiers would perhaps call at their homes, politely requesting their presence at the court in the Netherlands.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "politely requested", ensure the context reflects genuine courtesy, as overuse can sound passive-aggressive.

Common error

Avoid using "politely requested" in situations where a direct and assertive command is necessary, as it can undermine your authority or the urgency of the matter.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "politely requested" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as the predicate of a sentence to describe an action. It indicates that someone has made a request in a courteous manner. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Science

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "politely requested" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Its primary function is to describe the act of making a request in a courteous manner, suitable for maintaining a respectful tone. While common in news and media, as well as formal business settings, it should be used judiciously, avoiding contexts that require direct or assertive commands. Alternatives such as "courteously asked" or "respectfully requested" can provide subtle variations in emphasis. Understanding the appropriate register and context is key to effectively using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

courteously asked

Replaces "politely" with "courteously", emphasizing the respectful manner of the request.

respectfully requested

Substitutes "politely" with "respectfully", highlighting the deference shown in the request.

kindly asked

Uses "kindly" instead of "politely", focusing on the gentle and considerate nature of the request.

humbly requested

Replaces "politely" with "humbly", suggesting a modest and unassuming approach to the request.

formally requested

Emphasizes the official nature of the request, contrasting with the informal connotation of "politely".

tactfully requested

Highlights the sensitivity and skill used in making the request, differing from the general politeness.

diplomatically requested

Implies a strategic and careful approach to the request, suitable for delicate situations.

cordially invited

Suggests a warmer, more friendly request than "politely requested".

earnestly solicited

Implies a more intense and sincere request, going beyond simple politeness.

gently suggested

Conveys a milder form of request, more of a suggestion than a direct demand.

FAQs

How can I use "politely requested" in a sentence?

You can use "politely requested" to describe a courteous demand or instruction. For example: "The manager "politely requested" that all employees attend the meeting."

What are some alternatives to "politely requested"?

Alternatives include "courteously asked", "respectfully requested", or "kindly asked", each emphasizing a different aspect of politeness.

Is it always appropriate to use "politely requested"?

While generally acceptable, "politely requested" may not be suitable in urgent or authoritative contexts where a direct command is more effective. Consider the tone and situation.

What is the difference between "politely requested" and "demanded"?

"Politely requested" implies a courteous approach, while "demanded" suggests a forceful insistence. The choice depends on the desired tone and the relationship with the recipient.