requesting recommendations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "requesting recommendations" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are asking someone to provide suggestions or advice on a particular topic or issue. Example: "I am requesting recommendations for the best restaurants in the area for our upcoming dinner."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

We'd suggest requesting recommendations at least one month before the deadline.

Columbia University

If the parties fail to identify common agents, the Copyright Royalty Judges shall do so, after requesting recommendations from the parties to the negotiation proceeding.

Cornell University

The Duke Alumni Association is requesting recommendations and nominations for membership on its board of directors.

Duke University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Please give Professor Lamont as much advance notice as possible when requesting recommendation letters.

Harvard University

We conduct a series of experiments for a new SPA to evaluate the trustworthiness of an unknown SRA by requesting recommendation from other SPAs in the environment.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

My cheeks were red and steaming as I tore through the common application, trying to decipher the many elements of admission to five different universities, skimming and skidding through essay questions and stressing over requesting recommendation letters.

Huffington Post

He also requested recommendations on area in need of protection.

The New York Times

One of my most commonly requested recommendations is for an everyday oily skin moisturiser.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Together we organized all the paperwork, edited essays, did practice interviews and requested recommendations.

The New York Times

His order did not specify any areas, but it requested recommendations on shorelines in need of limits on activities like fishing, offshore oil drilling, mining and dumping.

The New York Times

Before your junior year ends, request recommendations from current teachers who can write with credibility about your academic engagement and curiosity (even if you did not receive an "A" in the class).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When "requesting recommendations", provide recommenders with ample time and specific details about the context for which the recommendation is needed to ensure a thorough and relevant letter.

Common error

Avoid making vague requests for recommendations. Instead, provide specific details about your skills, experiences, and the purpose of the recommendation to guide your recommenders and ensure the feedback is tailored and impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "requesting recommendations" functions as a gerund phrase, often serving as a noun. It describes the act of asking for endorsements or references, typically in academic or professional contexts. As Ludwig suggests, it's a grammatically correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Academia

33%

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "requesting recommendations" is a grammatically correct and usable gerund phrase denoting the act of seeking endorsements or references. While relatively common across academic, news, and scientific domains, its use implies a formal or professional context. Ludwig confirms its validity, suggesting that providing recommenders with ample time and specific details is a best practice. Alternatives include "seeking suggestions" or "inviting references". Avoiding vagueness in the request is a common pitfall.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seeking endorsements

This alternative replaces "recommendations" with "endorsements", focusing on explicit support.

asking for suggestions

This option uses more general terms, replacing "recommendations" with "suggestions" for broader input.

soliciting advice

This version replaces the direct request with a call for "advice", which can be more consultative.

inviting references

This option is more formal and often used in professional or academic settings, focusing on verifiable sources.

getting feedback

This phrase is broader, encompassing any form of constructive criticism or input, not necessarily positive.

procuring testimonials

This alternative suggests a formal approach to gathering written statements of support or validation.

obtaining commendations

This option emphasizes praise or formal approval, often in professional contexts.

inquiring about guidance

This shifts the focus to seeking direction or support rather than direct recommendations.

appealing for endorsements

This version implies a stronger need or urgency in seeking support or approval.

canvassing for opinions

This option suggests gathering a wide range of viewpoints or assessments from various sources.

FAQs

How can I use "requesting recommendations" in a sentence?

You can use "requesting recommendations" to describe the action of asking someone to provide a positive reference or endorsement. For example, "Requesting recommendations from professors is a common practice for graduate school applicants."

What are some alternatives to "requesting recommendations"?

Alternatives to "requesting recommendations" include "seeking suggestions", "asking for advice", or "inviting references", depending on the specific context.

How much advance notice should I give when "requesting recommendations"?

It's advisable to give recommenders at least one month's notice when "requesting recommendations" to allow them sufficient time to write a thoughtful and detailed letter.

What information should I provide when "requesting recommendations"?

When "requesting recommendations", provide your recommenders with your resume or CV, a personal statement (if applicable), the purpose of the recommendation, and any relevant deadlines or guidelines.