small request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "small request" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are asking someone for something that is not too difficult or time consuming. For example, "I have a small request: could you please pick up some milk from the store on your way home?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

This is no small request".

The Guardian

It started with a small request.

Independent

Walker approached Garber with a small request.

The New York Times - Magazine

A small request, then: more chiles all around.

The New York Times - Food

A paragraph in the letter reads: I have one small request to all of you.

The New York Times

It's a small request: there'll be time enough after it's over.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Gayford poses under an electric light and initially likens the experience to a visit to the barber's, for, though concentrated and alert, all he has to do is to respond to small requests.

The Guardian - Arts

There are less obvious ways of marking politeness in English: use a question ("Could you pass the … " instead of "Pass the …"), express some doubt ("I don't suppose you could … ") and apologise, even for small requests ("Sorry to bother you, but …").

Independent

— Angela, CA The demand for H-1B immigrant workers is not just a high-tech Silicon Valley story; rather it is a story of American employers across the country, in metro areas large and small, requesting high-skilled workers in a variety of occupations.

The New York Times

And yet she shares with Obermann both a passion for Homer and a steely willfulness that allows her to enter into the spirit of his excavations with a gusto that surprises even her: "Her mother had taught her that a wife obeys her husband in small requests so that she might rule him in more important matters.

The New York Times - Books

Typically, it's a lot of small requests that will return back something large.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When making a "small request", be specific and concise to avoid misunderstandings. Clear communication ensures the request is easily fulfilled.

Common error

Avoid assuming a "small request" will automatically be granted. Always phrase it politely and acknowledge the other person's time and willingness to help.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small request" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "small" modifies the noun "request". This indicates that the speaker is referring to a request that is not significant in scope or effort. Ludwig confirms this usage through its examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Wiki

24%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Academia

7%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "small request" is a versatile and commonly used phrase for indicating a minor or easily manageable ask. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for a wide range of contexts, particularly in news, media, and informal communication. To enhance clarity and politeness, it's best to be specific when making a "small request" and avoid assuming automatic compliance. Alternatives such as "minor request" or "modest request" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember that while the phrase suggests ease, politeness and respect are still essential.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor request

This alternative uses "minor" to emphasize the insignificance of the request.

little request

This alternative uses "little" which is a more informal synonym for "small".

modest request

Using "modest" highlights the humility or lack of imposition in the request.

simple request

This alternative emphasizes the ease and straightforward nature of the request.

easy favor to ask

This alternative uses different structure to express the easiness of the request.

trivial request

This alternative emphasizes how unimportant is the request.

insignificant request

This alternative underscores the minimal impact or importance of the request.

slight request

Using "slight" indicates the request is minimal or barely noticeable.

paltry request

Using "paltry" emphasizes the request is practically worthless.

unassuming request

This alternative highlights that the request does not make demands or put pressure on the person being asked.

FAQs

How can I politely phrase a "small request"?

You can use phrases like "Could you possibly...?", "I was wondering if you could...", or "I have a "quick favor" to ask" before stating your "small request".

What's the difference between a "small request" and a large one?

A "small request" implies minimal effort, time, or resources are needed from the person being asked. A large request, conversely, requires significant commitment.

When is it appropriate to make a "small request"?

It's appropriate when you need a minor assistance and believe the person you're asking is willing and able to help without significant inconvenience. Consider your relationship and their current circumstances before asking.

What can I say instead of "small request"?

You can use alternatives like "minor request", "little request", or "modest request" depending on the context.