seeking a recommendation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seeking a recommendation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are asking for a suggestion or endorsement from someone, typically in a professional or academic context. Example: "I am seeking a recommendation for a graduate program that aligns with my career goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

The company is seeking a recommendation that all children be vaccinated against rotavirus from the Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which sets the schedule of childhood immunizations.

Science Magazine

Johnson & Johnson went before a U.S. Food and Drug Administration advisory committee yesterday seeking a recommendation that the FDA approve Cypher, its drug-coated stent, in the U.S. (The product has been on the market in Europe since early 2002).

Forbes

Such an approach could potentially empower those who lack confidence to take up the opportunity to be involved and open up the option of seeking a recommendation from the healthcare professional for those who want it.

BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making

Decline the student's request and suggest seeking a recommendation from another professor if you feel your recommendation would be negative or tepid, or if you simply don't feel you know the student well enough to write a well-informed, comprehensive recommendation.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

She then sought a recommendation from the studios to study film production, but was denied.

The Guardian - Film

If he was not, she would seek a recommendation for a "decent" hotel at or near the site of a scheduled meeting.

The New York Times

I sought a recommendation from a professor who barely knew me.

Science Magazine

Ferrovial, Canadian investment fund Caisse de Depot et Placement du Quebec and Singapore government fund GIC said it would seek a recommendation from BAA for the share offer.

Forbes

The pardons office sought a recommendation for Leggett from the prosecutors' office after Stoll had retired.

Huffington Post

Counsel can also seek a recommendation that a defendant receive maximum halfway house and post-prison home confinement placement.

Huffington Post

Further studies have shown that very few of those who sought a recommendation had cancer, HIV/AIDS, glaucoma, or multiple sclerosis.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When "seeking a recommendation", provide the person you are asking with all the necessary information, such as your resume, a description of the opportunity you are applying for, and any specific points you would like them to address.

Common error

Don't assume that someone will automatically provide a positive recommendation simply because you asked. Ensure you have a strong relationship and that they are genuinely able to speak positively about your skills and experiences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seeking a recommendation" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of requesting or pursuing a favorable statement or endorsement from someone. This aligns with Ludwig AI's assessment of its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

25%

Science

25%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Academia

17%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "seeking a recommendation" is a grammatically correct and relatively common phrase used to describe the act of requesting a favorable statement or endorsement. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in written English. The phrase finds use across various contexts, including news, science, and general writing, with a neutral to professional register. Alternatives include "requesting a reference" and "asking for an endorsement". When using the phrase, it's best practice to provide the recommender with all necessary information and avoid assuming a recommendation is guaranteed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

requesting a reference

This alternative focuses on formal applications, such as job applications or academic admissions.

asking for an endorsement

This implies a formal request for support or approval.

soliciting a suggestion

This alternative is broader and can apply to any type of suggestion, not just formal recommendations.

looking for a referral

This term is often used in medical or professional service contexts.

pursuing a nomination

This implies an attempt to be formally nominated for something.

desiring a commendation

This suggests wanting a formal expression of praise or approval.

applying for a testimonial

This phrase highlights the act of applying to receive a statement that attests to one's character or qualifications.

procuring a letter of support

This emphasizes the action of obtaining a formal letter that provides backing or assistance.

aiming for an approval

This phrase conveys the general intention of gaining positive endorsement or affirmation.

in search of an advice

This focuses on obtaining guidance or counsel from someone, often regarding a specific issue or situation.

FAQs

What's the best way to ask for "seeking a recommendation"?

Be polite, provide context, and give ample time. Start by explaining why you're asking this specific person and provide all necessary materials to help them write a strong recommendation.

What can I say instead of "seeking a recommendation"?

You can use alternatives like "requesting a reference", "asking for an endorsement", or "looking for a referral" depending on the context.

How far in advance should I "seeking a recommendation"?

Give recommenders at least 2-3 weeks' notice. This allows them sufficient time to write a thoughtful and detailed recommendation letter.

Is it appropriate to ask for "seeking a recommendation" after a long period of no contact?

It's generally acceptable, but be mindful and reintroduce yourself. Remind the person of your past interactions and provide context to refresh their memory before asking for the recommendation.