request an answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "request an answer" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are asking someone to provide a response or reply to a question or inquiry. Example: "I would like to request an answer to my previous question regarding the project timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But in the context of purposive dialogue, it is essential to consider how a dialogue agent might arrive at the intention to convey certain ideas, such as episodic, instructional or descriptive information, a request, an acknowledgment and/or acceptance of a request, an answer to a question, an argument in support of a conclusion, etc.

SEP

Not because I count them or try to accumulate a bunch…but mainly because when I have a question I'd like a range of opinions on, instead of just hoping someone answers or asking people directly, I can request an answer of a certain finite number of users  (who have already written answers in those categories) from my experience, the response rate has been really amazing".

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

But, at the same time, firmly requesting an answer like this makes it difficult for them to hedge or prevaricate.

The Guardian

Incidental Intelligence: The American War Correspondents Association, a group of World War II chaps who have their headquarters on West 54 St., got a letter from an East Side lady requesting an answer to several rather fine-point questions about the American Revolution.

The New Yorker

By John Squire and Geoffrey T. Hellman The New Yorker, October 14, 1950 P. 25 Incidental Intelligence: The American War Correspondents Association, a group of World War II chaps who have their headquarters on West 54 St., got a letter from an East Side lady requesting an answer to several rather fine-point questions about the American Revolution.

The New Yorker

In this case it appears that the asker is requesting an answer that highlights factors that distinguish the alcoholism of the person to whom the question is addressed from that of the others in the group.

SEP

The function that requests an answer to a question based on the characteristics of the nested loop will promote an understanding of the relationships between the implementation and behavior of a nested loop.

Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning

In May 1980, the state Assembly Transportation Committee approved a resolution that requested an answer from the governor at the time, Jerry Brown, and Caltrans as to why certain projects, including SR 76, had not been started.

Wikipedia

The request for an answer was rhetorical.

The Guardian

(Ms. McCaskill's office did not respond to a request for an answer to the N.F.I.B.'s question).

The New York Times

A request for an answer to your question, dear reader, brought a response from Jeff Maerov, senior vice president and group creative director at DraftFCB.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "request an answer" in formal writing, ensure the request is clear and specific to facilitate a prompt and relevant response.

Common error

Avoid using "request an answer" in casual conversations or informal writing where simpler alternatives like "ask" or "find out" are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "request an answer" functions as a directive speech act, specifically a polite imperative. It's used to prompt someone to provide a response to a question or inquiry. The Ludwig AI confirms its usability in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "request an answer" is a versatile phrase used to politely solicit a response or information. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase, especially in professional and news contexts. While it functions as a direct imperative, context dictates the appropriate register and the availability of many alternatives, such as "ask for a response" or "seek a reply", makes it easy to fine-tune the expression to the specific needs of each situation. Remember to maintain clarity and specificity in the request for an effective response.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ask for a response

This alternative is a more general way of asking for a reply or reaction.

seek a reply

This phrase is slightly more formal and implies a more active search for an answer.

solicit a response

This is a formal way to ask for a response and may imply a wider audience.

demand an answer

This suggests a forceful request for a reply, implying authority or urgency.

inquire for a solution

This is used when the question specifically relates to seeking a way to solve an issue.

put in a query

This phrase is more commonly used in technical or formal contexts, like IT or customer service.

lodge an inquiry

This is used in very formal situations, such as legal or official contexts.

put a question

This implies asking a question directly, often in a formal setting.

seek clarification

This is used when needing more detailed or clearer information.

look for feedback

This alternative is most appropriate when the purpose is to get opinions or assessments from others.

FAQs

What's a more formal way to say "request an answer"?

You could use phrases like "solicit a response" or "lodge an inquiry" for a more formal tone.

How can I make my request for an answer more effective?

Be clear and specific in your request. Providing context and stating the purpose of your question can help ensure you receive a relevant and helpful response.

What's the difference between "request an answer" and "demand an answer"?

"Request an answer" is a polite way to ask for information, whereas "demand an answer" implies a forceful and urgent need for a response.

What can I say instead of "request an answer" in an email?

Depending on the context, you could use "ask for a response", "seek clarification", or simply "ask" followed by your question.