special requests

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "special requests" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to specific needs or preferences that someone may have. For example, "Please let us know if you have any special requests for your stay." Alternative expressions include "specific requests" and "custom requests."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Nor can I submit any special requests.

The New York Times - Books

"We can do special requests," she said.

The New York Times - Travel

We still accept special requests occasionally.

The New Yorker

Publicists get a lot of special requests.

The New York Times - Magazine

Have any special requests for us?

University of California, Berkeley

Please call with questions or special requests.

Cornell University

Special requests require AAP IT staff approval.

Cornell University

We are always interested in special requests.

University of California, Berkeley

Customers are also welcome to sketch their own special requests.

The New York Times - Style

The company's existing sales methods couldn't handle these special requests.

Harvard Business Review

How do they like to receive news or special requests?

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When communicating about availability, clarify the extent to which you can fulfill "special requests". Be upfront about limitations to manage expectations effectively.

Common error

Avoid guaranteeing fulfillment of all "special requests" without assessing feasibility. This can lead to disappointment and damage your reputation. Be realistic about what you can deliver.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "special requests" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It denotes specific needs or demands that are outside the standard or typical offerings. Ludwig confirms its common usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Academia

31%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "special requests" is a common and grammatically sound way to refer to specific needs or preferences. As Ludwig's analysis indicates, it is frequently used in both academic and journalistic contexts, with a neutral register suitable for a variety of situations. When using this phrase, it's important to manage expectations and be clear about the extent to which you can accommodate such requests. Alternatives like "custom orders" or "specific requirements" can be used depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

custom orders

Refers to orders tailored to individual customer specifications, emphasizing personalization.

specific requirements

Highlights particular needs or demands that must be met, focusing on necessity.

personalized accommodations

Stresses adjustments made to suit individual preferences or needs, especially in hospitality or service settings.

tailored services

Emphasizes services that are customized to fit individual client needs, showcasing adaptability.

individualized preferences

Focuses on the personal tastes and choices of an individual, indicating a high degree of customization.

bespoke arrangements

Implies highly customized and exclusive arrangements, often associated with luxury services.

customized specifications

Refers to detailed and precise requirements that are made to order.

unique needs

Highlights the distinct and particular requirements of an individual or situation.

distinct demands

Emphasizes particular requests that stand out from the norm, often requiring special attention.

exclusive stipulations

Indicates conditions or requirements that are specific and not generally available, suggesting exclusivity.

FAQs

How can I appropriately use "special requests" in a sentence?

Use "special requests" when referring to particular needs or preferences that fall outside standard offerings. For example, "We try to accommodate "special requests" to a certain extent."

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "special requests"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases such as "custom orders", "specific requirements", or "personalized accommodations".

Is it more appropriate to say "special request" or "special requests"?

"Special request" is singular and refers to a single, specific need, while "special requests" is plural and refers to multiple or a general category of unique needs. Use the plural form when discussing the concept generally or when multiple requests are involved.

What is the difference between "special requests" and "custom orders"?

"Special requests" is a broader term encompassing any unusual need or preference, while "custom orders" specifically refers to items or services made to individual specifications. "Custom orders" are a type of "special request".