request the return of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "request the return of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when asking for something to be given back or returned, often in formal or legal contexts. Example: "I would like to formally request the return of my personal belongings that were taken during the incident."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The "triangle" model enables investors to request the return of funds at any time.

The Guardian

His lack of pride allowed him to request the return of his CBE in 2009 when British troops withdrew from Iraq.

The Guardian

But when a waiter followed two women out of Vivo Bar and Cafe in Greenwich recently to request the return of two glasses he had seen one of them take, the culprit cooly relinquished them with a shrug.

The New York Times

The decision this week by the British government to request the return of five Guantánamo detainees with British ties was welcome news for Bush administration officials eager to cut the detention center's population.

The New York Times

A1 Debate Over Detainees The decision by the British government this week to request the return of five Guant?mo detainees with British ties was welcome news for Bush administration officials eager to cut the population of the detention center.

The New York Times

But "The Interview" is an overlong rice porridge of visual gagging and situation-comedic-style "ocean liners" that will make viewers request the return of their two hours that could have otherwise been spent in glorious service of the benevolent state.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

(The Cambodian government has also requested the return of two life-size statues from the Metropolitan Museum of Art).

The New York Times - Arts

But, says Webber, they "requested the return of the art collection.

Independent

The Parthians requested the return of one of the sons of Phraates IV, and the Roman emperor Tiberius sent Vonones.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He requested the return of a volume of Robert Frost's poetry, inscribed by the author, that Berman had given him.

The New Yorker

"After efforts to reschedule were unsuccessful," the lawsuit says, Main Line Rescue "requested the return of the $15,000 and the first-class air tickets it had advanced to Ms. Derek.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure context clarity: When using "request the return of", explicitly state what is to be returned to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify "request the return of the documents" instead of just "request the return".

Common error

Avoid using "request the return of" in casual conversations or informal emails. Simpler phrases like "can I have that back?" or "could you return this?" are more appropriate and sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "request the return of" functions as a verb phrase typically used to formally ask for something to be given back. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate use in various contexts, ranging from news reports to legal matters.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "request the return of" is a formal phrase used to ask for something to be given back, as validated by Ludwig AI. While grammatically correct and useful in official contexts, it may sound overly formal in casual settings. Alternatives include "ask for the return of" or simpler phrases depending on the situation. The phrase is most frequently found in news media and scientific publications, indicating its suitability for formal communication. When using this phrase, ensure clarity about what is being requested to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ask for the return of

A more direct alternative, suitable for less formal contexts.

seek the return of

Implies a more formal or persistent request.

demand the return of

Indicates a forceful and non-negotiable request.

enquire about the return of

A polite and less assertive way to ask about the possibility of a return.

apply for a return of

Suggests a formal application process is involved.

call for the return of

Implies a public or official appeal for something to be returned.

initiate the return of

Focuses on starting the process of returning something.

arrange for the return of

Highlights the planning and organization involved in the return.

get back

A less formal and more general way to refer to receiving something again.

reclaim

Emphasizes the act of taking back something that was lost or taken away.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "request the return of"?

The phrase "request the return of" is best suited for formal situations, such as legal correspondence, official requests to institutions, or any context where a degree of formality and precision is required. In casual conversation, simpler phrases are often more appropriate.

What are some alternatives to "request the return of"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "ask for the return of", "seek the return of", or simply "return".

Is "request the return of" too formal for everyday conversation?

Yes, "request the return of" can sound overly formal in everyday conversation. In most informal settings, using simpler phrases like "can I have it back?" or "could you please return this?" is more appropriate and natural.

How does "request the return of" differ from "demand the return of"?

"Request the return of" implies a polite or formal appeal for something to be returned. "Demand the return of", on the other hand, suggests a forceful and non-negotiable insistence on getting something back. The choice depends on the situation and the level of authority or urgency involved.