respectfully request that you

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "respectfully request that you" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in formal communication when making a polite request to someone. 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

24 human-written examples

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

"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

"We respectfully request that you reiterate the Department's longstanding position that federal law prohibits gambling over the Internet, including intrastate gambling (e.g. lotteries)." Alisa Finelli, a spokeswoman for the Justice Department, declined to comment beyond saying that the department was considering the senators' letter.

The New York Times

"Weighing these interests in the balance," Mr. Stern concluded, "I hope that you will agree that the public interest here is paramount, and I therefore respectfully request that you permit the people of New Jersey access to this information about a candidate for the office of United States senator".

The New York Times

"We respectfully request that you reconsider and reverse your administration's plans to transfer control of the Census Bureau and the 2010 census to the White House staff," the House Republican leader, John A. Boehner of Ohio, wrote Thursday in a letter to the president.

The New York Times

According to Roll Call, congressional leaders also put out a "courtesy notice" last week in which they stated: "Out of respect for the pope's schedule and the expectation of a timely address, we respectfully request that you assist us by refraining from handshakes and conversations along and down the center aisle".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

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

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

"I respectfully request that, in the event of sequestration, U.S.D.A. meat and poultry inspectors not be furloughed so that the secretary of agriculture can fulfill his statutory obligations," he wrote.

The New York Times

We respectfully request that Glenn Beck be sanctioned by Fox News for his completely unacceptable attacks on a survivor of the Holocaust and Roger Ailes apologise for his dismissive remarks about rabbis' sensitivity to how the Holocaust is used on the air.

The Guardian - Opinion

We respectfully request that AT&T reconsider its behavior and the impact that blocking FaceTime will have on its customers, particularly the deaf and hard of hearing, as well as all who use this application to communicate with family and friends over the Internet.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow the phrase with a clear and concise explanation of what you are requesting and why it is important.

Common error

While "respectfully request that you" is polite, overuse can make your writing sound stiff or insincere. Vary your language by using alternative phrases like "I would be grateful if you would" or "politely request that you".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "respectfully request that you" functions as a polite and formal way to introduce a request. It signals deference and consideration for the recipient's position or authority. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in letters and formal communications.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

21%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "respectfully request that you" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression for making a polite request, especially in formal communication. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, highlighting its function as a respectful way to seek action or consideration. While highly appropriate in professional, academic, and news contexts, overuse should be avoided to maintain sincerity. Alternatives such as "humbly ask that you" or "politely request that you" can add variety to your writing, ensuring your tone remains genuine and considerate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

politely request that you

Substitutes "respectfully" with "politely", maintaining a similar level of formality.

I kindly ask that you

Uses "kindly" to convey politeness in the request.

humbly ask that you

Replaces "respectfully request" with a more modest tone.

I respectfully submit that you

Suggests a deferential submission of a request for consideration.

earnestly request that you

Emphasizes the sincerity of the request.

formally request that you

Highlights the official nature of the request.

respectfully ask for your consideration

Shifts the focus to seeking consideration, implying a request.

I would be grateful if you would

Expresses gratitude in advance for fulfilling the request.

I urge you to consider

Implies a strong recommendation while still being respectful.

we appeal to you to

Presents a plea or formal appeal.

FAQs

What is the difference between "respectfully request" and "kindly request"?

Both "respectfully request" and "kindly request" convey politeness, but "respectfully request" often implies a higher degree of formality or deference. "Kindly request" is generally perceived as slightly warmer and less formal.

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

It is appropriate to use "respectfully request that you" in formal settings, such as when writing to superiors, government officials, or in any situation where showing deference and politeness is important. It suits formal letters, official communications, or when seeking permission or action from someone in authority.

What are some alternatives to "respectfully request that you"?

Alternatives include "humbly ask that you", "politely request that you", or "I would be grateful if you would". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality required.

How can I use "respectfully request that you" in a sentence?

You can use "respectfully request that you" to introduce a request, such as: "I respectfully request that you consider my application." or "We respectfully request that you reconsider the decision." It should be followed by a clear statement of what is being requested.