requesting permission

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "requesting permission" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are asking for approval or consent to do something. Example: "I am writing to you today, requesting permission to access the restricted area for my research project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Requesting permission has become too routine to inspire a demand for an exemption, he said.

The New York Times

A certified letter requesting permission to enter was also sent, he added, but it was ignored.

The New York Times

Another cable network, Court-TV, also sent a letter to the court today requesting permission to broadcast Friday's argument.

The New York Times

My landlord has sent a letter to his tenants requesting permission to install new windows in our apartments.

The New York Times

This all sounds as it should be, with the Navy requesting permission from the agency, as required by various laws protecting marine mammals and endangered species.

The New York Times

He has sent a letter to the mayor of London, Boris Johnson, requesting permission to bring the ark there for the Olympic Games next summer.

The New York Times

The document was from the senior officer in the case, Detective Sergeant Ross Grantham, requesting permission from his superior to seek out an expert in the United States.

Independent

Keith wrote to Sir Ian Hamilton, the British general in command of the Gallipoli campaign, requesting permission to visit the Anzac force on the peninsula.

Independent

Nearly two years ago, she was among a dozen senior educators who submitted paperwork to the ministry requesting permission to establish a national parent-teacher association.

The Economist

Mr. Femia wrote two letters requesting permission, even offering to waive the building's liability, but was told stair running was "completely impermissible".

The New York Times - Health

Like people in many other cases, he will be requesting permission to appeal soon, and we hope he will finally get a fair trial.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always provide a brief explanation of why you are "requesting permission". This context can strengthen your request.

Common error

Don't assume that silence or lack of explicit denial equates to permission. Always seek explicit consent to avoid misunderstandings or breaches of protocol.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "requesting permission" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the action of seeking authorization or consent for a specific action or purpose. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating its use across diverse contexts, supporting its function as a direct way to ask for approval.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "requesting permission" is a widely used phrase for seeking authorization or consent. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate across a broad range of contexts, from formal business communications to scientific research. While synonyms like "seeking authorization" exist, understanding the nuances of each alternative ensures effective communication. The most crucial advice here is to be as clear as possible when using the phrase and also to avoid making assumptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Seeking approval

Similar to "requesting permission" but might imply a more formal process.

Requesting consent

This is a synonym for requesting permission but often used in legal or ethical contexts.

Seeking authorization

This is a more formal way of expressing the act of asking for permission.

Applying for consent

This is common in legal or medical contexts when formal approval is needed.

Petitioning for authorization

This implies a formal or official request for permission.

Asking for leave

This is used specifically when requesting time off or absence from duty.

Requesting clearance

This is used when permission is needed to access restricted information or areas.

Seeking a license

This refers to a formal request to be allowed to carry out a business transaction or personal requirement.

Seeking the green light

An informal expression meaning to ask for permission to proceed with a task or project.

Seeking endorsement

Implies seeking formal support or approval, which can also act as permission.

FAQs

How can I use "requesting permission" in a formal email?

In a formal email, you can use "requesting permission" by clearly stating your request and the reason for it. For example: "I am writing to you today, requesting permission to use the company's data for my research project".

What's a more formal alternative to "requesting permission"?

A more formal alternative to "requesting permission" is "seeking authorization". This phrase is appropriate for official or legal contexts.

Is it redundant to say "requesting permission to allow"?

Yes, it's slightly redundant. Saying "requesting permission to allow" is like saying "asking for permission to permit". It's better to simply state what you are requesting permission to do, for example, "requesting permission to enter the premises".

What is the difference between "requesting permission" and "seeking consent"?

"Requesting permission" is a general term for asking for authorization. "Seeking consent" often implies a more formal or ethical context, such as in medical or research settings.