submit a formal request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "submit a formal request" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you need to ask for something officially or in a structured manner, often in professional or administrative contexts. Example: "To proceed with your application, please submit a formal request to the admissions office."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Kahan said Rodriguez will submit a formal request asking the board to reconsider its decision.

The Guardian

Other backers of the F-16 C/D plan think it's a good time for Taiwan's government to submit a formal request to the Americans.

The Economist

The commission has said it stands by the report, and Goldstone would need to submit a formal request to change it.

The Guardian

A spokesman for the United Nations Human Rights Council said for the report to be withdrawn Mr. Goldstone would have to submit a formal request to the Geneva-based body, which he has not done.

The New York Times

Microsoft plans soon to submit a formal request to the Court of First Instance in Luxembourg asking that the commission's order, together with a requirement to disclose more of Windows' code to rivals by late July, be suspended pending the outcome of its appeal of the antitrust ruling.

The New York Times

Although the administration has yet to submit a formal request to the Council, the idea has come up in meetings in recent weeks, and the Council speaker, Gifford Miller, advised the Democratic caucus on Thursday to brace itself for both the first property tax rate increase in a decade and stiff spending cuts.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Mahmoud Abbas submitted a formal request for membership to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon Ki-Moon

Encyclopedia Britannica

The African Union has submitted a formal request to the United Nations Security Council, which can defer the proceedings for a year.

The New York Times

The U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association has submitted a formal request that Lindsey Vonn be allowed to take part in a World Cup men's downhill in Canada.

The New York Times

Michigan's state environmental regulatory agency has submitted a formal request to Detroit Bulk Storage, the company holding the material for Koch Carbon, to change its storage methods.

The New York Times

This past December, AVI BioPharma submitted a formal request to the F.D.A. for approval to begin clinical trials of the antiviral.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing official correspondence, ensure you use "submit a formal request" followed by clear instructions on how to complete the submission process, including deadlines and required documentation.

Common error

Avoid using "submit a formal request" when a simple email or phone call would suffice. Reserving it for situations that truly require a documented and official process maintains its impact and relevance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "submit a formal request" functions as a directive, urging someone to initiate an official procedure for obtaining something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it indicates the act of presenting an official application or inquiry.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "submit a formal request" is a common and grammatically sound way to instruct someone to initiate an official process. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for professional contexts and prompts structured action. When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the process, deadlines, and required documentation. Alternatives include "file a formal application" or "make an official request". While versatile, avoid using it when a simple inquiry would suffice to maintain its formality and impact. The phrase appears frequently in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

file a formal application

Focuses on a structured application process, implying a specific form or procedure.

make an official application

Stresses the action of applying through formal channels.

register a formal complaint

Highlights the act of officially reporting a grievance or issue.

lodge an official appeal

Emphasizes contesting a decision through formal channels.

present a written petition

Highlights a formal written request, often involving multiple signatories.

put forward an official proposal

Implies suggesting a plan or idea for consideration through established procedures.

initiate a formal inquiry

Involves starting an official investigation or asking for detailed information.

enter a formal plea

Used in legal contexts to indicate a formal declaration in court.

tender an official resignation

Specifically refers to formally resigning from a position.

table a formal motion

Suggests formally presenting a proposal for discussion and voting in a meeting.

FAQs

How to use "submit a formal request" in a sentence?

You can use "submit a formal request" when you need to ask for something officially or in a structured manner. For example: "To proceed with your application, please "submit a formal request" to the admissions office."

What can I say instead of "submit a formal request"?

You can use alternatives like "make an official request" or "file a formal application" depending on the context.

When should I "submit a formal request" instead of asking informally?

Use "submit a formal request" when the situation requires documentation, official tracking, or when dealing with administrative processes. Informal inquiries are better suited for simpler, less critical matters.

What details should I include when I "submit a formal request"?

Always include your contact information, a clear and concise description of what you are requesting, the reasons for your request, any supporting documentation, and the desired timeline or deadline.