regret to request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "regret to request" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward.
It can be used in formal contexts where you want to express a sense of regret about making a request. Example: "I regret to request your assistance with this matter, but it is urgent."

Academia

Formal & Business

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mr. Kramer's letter read: "I regret to inform you that the documents you have requested fall under the exceptions to access provided for under the access policy.

Columbia University

We regret to say that we cannot respond to each individual request.

Unicef

The letter reads as follows: "We regret to inform you at this time that we are unable to provide a loan in the amount requested of $20.00.

Independent

Arriving in Brussels, she said that she had "personal regret" over her request to delay Brexit, but said it will allow time for MPs to make a "final choice".

BBC

"Now we must move forward," Obama said in a written statement accepting "with sadness and regret" Daschle's request to be removed from consideration.

Huffington Post

"Regret your request," I guess, is the form of regret used in responses to R.S.V.P., where they write "regrets only".

The New York Times

His commitments are so extensive for 2007 and much of 2008 that he must regret your request".

The New York Times

Williams tells him that he might regret that request.

Los Angeles Times

Their inability to trace the girl, and the poverty – Raissa bitterly regretted once requesting an egg to eat, only to learn that her relatives had walked miles to obtain one – were a formative experience.

The Guardian - Arts

At the same time, we regret that repeated requests made over the past five years by the ICRC for access to Mr Shalit, in order to monitor his condition and to facilitate the exchange of news with his family, were uniformly rejected.

The Guardian

Mr. Thomas told The Detroit News that he had "the best of intentions" when asking for the suicide watch to be lifted but that he regretted the request.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "regret to request" with simpler alternatives like "I am sorry to ask" or "I must request" to maintain clarity and avoid sounding overly formal.

Common error

Avoid using "regret to request" in informal settings, as it can sound excessively stiff or insincere. Choose more direct and friendly alternatives for everyday communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "regret to request" functions as a formal expression used to introduce a request with an apology or expression of reluctance. Ludwig AI confirms that while grammatically sound, it is not frequently used, indicating a somewhat archaic or overly formal style. The usage indicates that the speaker is aware that their request may cause inconvenience or burden.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Formal & Business

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News & Media

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Academia

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "regret to request" is a formal way to introduce a request, conveying politeness and reluctance. While grammatically correct, Ludwig AI indicates it's not commonly used and can sound awkward. It's best suited for formal or professional contexts where you want to soften the impact of your request. Simpler alternatives like "I am sorry to ask" or "I must request" may be preferred for clarity. When using this phrase, be mindful of the potential for sounding overly stiff and ensure the context warrants such formality. As highlighted by Ludwig, the key is to choose a tone that aligns with the situation and maintains clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with regret, I must ask

Formally conveys the speaker's regret alongside the request.

I am sorry to ask, but I must request

Directly expresses apology before making the request, increasing politeness.

I'm not happy to request

Indicates dissatisfaction or unhappiness about making the request.

I apologize for requesting

Focuses on the act of requesting as something needing apology.

I am compelled to request with some regret

Expresses a feeling of being forced to ask, combined with regret.

reluctantly request

Emphasizes hesitation or unwillingness in making the request.

with reservations, I request

Highlights that the speaker has doubts or concerns.

hesitantly request

Highlights the speaker's uncertainty or nervousness.

it pains me to request

Indicates a strong sense of reluctance or discomfort.

unwillingly I request

Emphasizes the lack of desire to make the request.

FAQs

What does "regret to request" mean?

The phrase "regret to request" is a formal way of expressing reluctance or apology when making a request. It indicates that the speaker is not pleased to be making the request but feels it is necessary.

When is it appropriate to use "regret to request"?

It's best to use "regret to request" in formal or professional contexts where you want to convey a sense of politeness and respect while making a request that might be burdensome or inconvenient. In informal settings, alternatives like "I'm sorry to ask" are more suitable.

What are some alternatives to "regret to request"?

Alternatives to "regret to request" include "I am sorry to ask", "I must request", "reluctantly request", or "with regret I must ask". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality desired.

Is "regret to request" grammatically correct?

Yes, "regret to request" is grammatically correct, but it is not a very common or natural-sounding phrase. While grammatically sound, it might be better to use more common alternatives for clarity and impact.