request to be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "request to be" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used as a verb phrase to indicate that someone is asking for something. For example, "I request to be given the opportunity to present this project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He declined a request to be interviewed.

The New York Times - Health

He declined a request to be interviewed for this article.

The New York Times

She declined a request to be interviewed for this article.

The New York Times

Paladino declined a request to be interviewed after his appearance.

The New York Times

Mr. Pentz declined a request to be interviewed.

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Kyl declined a request to be interviewed.

The New York Times

His request to be sent home to Panama was denied.

The New York Times

Captain Yee declined a request to be interviewed.

The New York Times

"It is rare for an extradition request to be withdrawn.

The Guardian

Taylor declined a request to be interviewed for this article.

The New York Times - Sports

His request to be transferred to the Hague surprised many.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "request to be", ensure that the context clearly indicates who is making the request and who or what the request is directed towards. Clear subject-verb agreement enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "request to be" in situations where the passive voice creates ambiguity. Ensure it's clear who or what is acted upon. If the request is for someone to do something, use "request that someone do something" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "request to be" typically functions as part of an infinitive phrase, indicating a formal expression of desire or application. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a verb phrase signifying someone asking for something. Examples show its usage in contexts like requesting consideration or inclusion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

18%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "request to be" is a versatile and grammatically sound construction used to express a formal desire or application. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability in written English. It is prevalent in news, science, and wiki contexts, suggesting a formal to neutral register. Its function involves indicating a formal expression of desire, and common errors involve misinterpreting passive voice constructions. Related phrases include "seek to be" and "desire to be", offering nuanced alternatives depending on the intended emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Seek to be

Focuses on actively trying to achieve a certain state or condition.

Desire to be

Emphasizes a strong feeling of wanting a particular state or condition.

Wish to be

Implies a hope or longing for a certain state, often less assertive than a request.

Apply to be

Suggests a formal process of seeking a position or status.

Petition to be

Indicates a formal written request to an authority.

Appeal to be

Implies a plea or urgent request for a specific outcome.

Aim to be

Focuses on the intention or goal of reaching a particular state.

Intend to be

Highlights the planned or purposed state of being.

Aspire to be

Indicates a high ambition or goal for one's future state.

Long to be

Expresses a deep yearning or strong desire to be in a certain state.

FAQs

How can I use "request to be" in a sentence?

You can use "request to be" to express a desire or application for something to happen to oneself. For example, "I "request to be" considered for the promotion."

What's a formal alternative to "request to be"?

In formal contexts, you might use phrases like "formally apply for" or "submit a request for" depending on the specific situation and the level of formality required.

Is it always necessary to include "to be" after "request"?

No, it isn't. The inclusion of "to be" depends on the intended meaning. "Request" can be followed by a direct object or a "that" clause. For example, "I request your presence" or "I request that you attend."

What's the difference between "request to be" and "asking to be"?

"Request to be" is generally more formal than "asking to be". "Asking to be" is suitable for informal contexts, while ""request to be"" is preferable in formal or official communications.