respectfully request that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "respectfully request that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in formal communication when making a polite request. Example: "I respectfully request that you consider my application for the scholarship."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We respectfully request that stockholders vote 'FOR' all directors".

The New York Times

I respectfully request that you refrain from this sort of enforcement in California's courthouses.

The Washington Post

Mason delightedly quoted a notice that read, "We would respectfully request that the audience refrain from throwing mats".

The New Yorker

Patty and I respectfully request that as much privacy as possible be afforded Ryan and our family during this time".

The New York Times

On that basis we respectfully request that consideration be given to the human rights implications of cases like Mr Ibrahim's," it said.

The Guardian

We respectfully request that all news organizations and all Americans consider these facts when deciding whether to pursue or publicize his real identity.

The New York Times

However, I respectfully request that you and your office reconsider this decision and dismiss the two criminal charges this young man faces.

The New York Times - Sports

"We, the Parliament of Australia, respectfully request that this apology be received in the spirit in which it is offered, as part of the healing of the nation.

The Guardian

The family will return to the late residence and respectfully request that contributions in his memory be made to the Rabbi's Discretionary Fund at Main Line Reform Temple.

The New York Times

"That trade-off is simply not worth it to our country … Therefore, I respectfully request that you no longer consider my candidacy at this time".

The Guardian

More importantly, however, we respectfully request that they cease to allege that we do not exist, that we are 'supposed' veterans and that we never intended to march.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "respectfully request that" in situations where maintaining a formal and polite tone is important, such as when addressing superiors, authorities, or individuals you do not know well. It is suitable for letters, emails, and official documents.

Common error

Avoid using "respectfully request that" in casual conversations or informal emails to friends and colleagues. It can sound overly formal and out of place. Opt for simpler alternatives like "please" or "kindly" in those scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "respectfully request that" primarily functions as a polite and formal way to introduce a request. Ludwig AI confirms it as correct and usable in written English, emphasizing its suitability for formal communication.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "respectfully request that" is a grammatically sound and highly prevalent expression used to introduce a polite and formal request. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and indicates its common usage across diverse contexts. While it is most often found in news and media, formal business communications, and scientific publications, it's crucial to avoid overusing it in informal settings where it may sound overly formal. Consider using simpler alternatives like "please" or "kindly" in such instances. When aiming for a formal and deferential tone, "respectfully request that" remains a valuable and appropriate choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

respectfully ask that

A shorter alternative that maintains the respectful tone.

politely ask that

A more straightforward and less formal way of making a request.

kindly request that

Emphasizes the politeness and consideration behind the request.

earnestly request that

Emphasizes the sincerity and seriousness of the request.

request with respect that

Reorders the words to emphasize the respectful manner of the request, slightly changing the tone.

humbly request that

Highlights the speaker's deference and lack of presumption.

hereby request that

Adds a formal and official tone to the request.

formally request that

Highlights the official nature of the request.

strongly request that

Indicates a firm and insistent request.

urgently request that

Conveys a sense of immediate importance and necessity.

FAQs

How to use "respectfully request that" in a sentence?

You can use "respectfully request that" to make a polite and formal request. For example, "I respectfully request that you consider my application" or "We respectfully request that the meeting be postponed".

What can I say instead of "respectfully request that"?

You can use alternatives like "politely ask that", "kindly request that", or "humbly request that" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

When is it appropriate to use "respectfully request that"?

It's appropriate to use "respectfully request that" in formal settings such as official correspondence, letters to authorities, or when addressing someone of higher status. It maintains a polite and deferential tone.

What is the difference between "respectfully request that" and simply saying "please"?

"Respectfully request that" is more formal and emphasizes deference, while "please" is a simpler and more direct way to make a request suitable for most everyday situations. Using "respectfully request that" adds a layer of politeness and formality that "please" may not convey.