steep request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "steep request" is not commonly used in written English and may not convey a clear meaning.
It could be used to describe a request that is considered excessive or unreasonable, but it is not a standard expression. Example: "Asking for a raise after only one month on the job felt like a steep request to me."

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

A person with knowledge of Yankee developments said talks between the teams heated up yesterday, but the Cubs continued to make a steep request in both quality and quantity of players.

The New York Times - Sports

Asking cord cutters to pay for yet another subscription just to watch a couple of good shows is a steep request, especially when there are other ways to buy those TV seasons as a one-off – like through Amazon or iTunes.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Muhammad Azam Khan, the top Pakistan government official in the South Waziristan tribal agency, said he had requested a steep increase in the number of Pakistani troops in the area -- to 12,000 from 4,000.

The New York Times

"I know sometimes you think my requests are a bit steep," says Alan. "You're on a slippery slope with those jokes," says one of the others.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Mr. Donovan said problems like robo-signing, a blanket term for the banks' widespread practice of evicting homeowners without proper documentation, and charging steep fees to process loan modification requests had largely ended.

The New York Times

The settlements stem from lawsuits the companies brought against the state after their requests for steeper increases were rejected by the insurance department last year.

The New York Times

Although they requested that the clerk only receive steep fines, US District Judge David Bunning ruled differently, sentencing her to jail, the Associated Press reported.

Vice

WASHINGTON — The Environmental Protection Agency declined on Friday to relax its requirement on the use of corn ethanol in gasoline, rejecting a request from several states related to a steep decline in the nation's corn production.

The New York Times

Finding courage in congregation, they sent forth their request in a lilting chant: "The mountain stands steep in the calm.

The New York Times - Arts

In a jungle clearing, at the top of a steep, rutted track, a group of South Pacific tribesmen convey an unusual request.

Huffington Post

The figures were released as part of a Freedom of Information request by BBC Wales and showed Blaenau Gwent had the steepest rise in the number of fines for dog fouling.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "steep request", ensure the context clearly indicates the request is considered excessive, unreasonable, or difficult to meet. Consider using alternative phrases like "excessive demand" or "unreasonable ask" for greater clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "steep request" when you simply mean a difficult or challenging request. The term carries a stronger connotation of unreasonableness or excessiveness. Using "challenging request" may be more appropriate in many situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "steep request" functions as a noun phrase, where "steep" modifies the noun "request". It describes the nature of the request, indicating that it is considered demanding or excessive. The Ludwig AI highlights that the expression is not standard, so it is not used frequently.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "steep request" is a grammatically acceptable but infrequent phrase used to describe a demand considered excessive or unreasonable. Ludwig AI indicates that it is not a standard expression, so writers should consider alternatives like "excessive demand" or "unreasonable ask" for improved clarity. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, the phrase carries a neutral register, suitable for objective reporting. Despite its grammatical correctness, its infrequent usage suggests that alternative, more common phrasings may be preferable for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

excessive demand

Focuses on the immoderate or extreme nature of the demand.

unreasonable ask

Highlights the lack of justification or fairness in the request.

exorbitant claim

Emphasizes the excessive or inflated nature of the claim being made.

outrageous requisition

Implies the request is shocking or offensive due to its excessiveness.

demanding proposition

Highlights the challenging nature of the offer or suggestion being made.

onerous condition

Stresses the burdensome or oppressive nature of the requirement.

stringent requirement

Emphasizes the strict or precise nature of the necessary condition.

substantial appeal

Focuses on the significant or considerable nature of the request.

high expectation

Highlights the elevated standard or level of performance that is expected.

considerable imposition

Emphasizes the burdensome or disruptive nature of the demand.

FAQs

What does "steep request" mean?

"Steep request" describes a request that is considered excessive, unreasonable, or difficult to fulfill.

What can I say instead of "steep request"?

You can use alternatives like "excessive demand", "unreasonable ask", or "exorbitant claim" depending on the specific context.

Is "steep request" grammatically correct?

Yes, "steep request" is grammatically correct, but it is not a commonly used phrase. It might be better to choose alternatives for clarity.

When is it appropriate to use "steep request"?

It is appropriate to use "steep request" when you want to emphasize that a request is not only difficult to meet but also seen as unfair or excessive. If you only want to emphasize the difficulty, consider using "challenging request".