unless requested

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'unless requested' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to imply that something will not be done or something will not occur unless asked for. For example: I will not be sending any additional information regarding this matter unless requested.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

2. No drawers on counter unless requested by customer.

The New Yorker

(Small print: We reserve the right to copyedit submissions, and names will used unless requested otherwise).

The New Yorker

When approached by The Independent, Mr Papantoniou explained that he could not answer questions on behalf of his client unless requested to by the police.

Independent

"Since I have become counselor to President Nazarbayev, I do not meet with U.S. government officials unless requested by the government of Kazakhstan," Mr. Giffen said.

The New York Times

For Marriott, the pact expands its environmental efforts, which started in 2005 with a linen and bedding reuse program, where sheets and towels would no longer be replaced nightly during a guest's stay unless requested.

The New York Times

The meat, cooked medium-rare unless requested otherwise, is juicy, with a thrillingly dark crust; the bun's fluffiness seems to have been calibrated to the precise cubic micrometer to offset the richness of the meat.

The New York Times - Food

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

Send this letter and sample of writing to editor for first contact via snail mail (unless otherwise requested by the editor).

WikiHow

"Do not touch unless specifically requested!" one said firmly.

The New York Times

All were told that their comments would not be attributed unless they requested it.

The New York Times

In cases in which entire apartment buildings are blurred, Mr. Oberbeck said that Google would keep ground-floor businesses visible, unless proprietors requested otherwise.

The New York Times - Tech

Other changes include updates to the user interface and the elimination of the ability to upload a resume, unless specifically requested by the particular college.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "unless requested" to clearly state that an action or piece of information will only be provided if someone specifically asks for it. This can manage expectations and avoid unnecessary effort.

Common error

While "unless requested" is often used in passive constructions, avoid overusing passive voice in your writing. Ensure the active agent is clear when appropriate to maintain clarity and directness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unless requested" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate a condition. It specifies under what circumstances something will not occur. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness and common usage of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

42%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unless requested" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to indicate a condition that triggers an action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used across various contexts. It is most frequent in scientific papers and news articles. When writing, consider if a more formal alternative such as "only upon specific request" may be more appropriate for professional communications. Be mindful of overusing passive voice and ensure clarity in your sentences by defining the active agent whenever possible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

only if asked

Simplifies the condition, focusing on the act of asking as the trigger for action.

if not solicited

Emphasizes the proactive nature of the request, highlighting that action is only taken if initiated by someone.

if not called for

Suggests the action is not necessary or appropriate unless specifically needed or asked for.

except when prompted

Highlights that the action occurs as a response to a specific cue or instigation.

unless otherwise sought

Similar to "unless requested", but uses 'sought' to emphasize the effort required to obtain something.

without a specific request

Focuses on the absence of a prior request as the default state.

in the absence of a demand

Emphasizes that the event will not happen if there isn't a demand for it.

not unless petitioned

Implies a formal appeal or request is necessary for the action to occur.

save when requisitioned

Uses more formal language, indicating that action is contingent on an official requisition.

only upon invitation

Highlights that the action will only occur after an invitation.

FAQs

How can I use "unless requested" in a sentence?

You can use "unless requested" to indicate that something will only happen if someone asks for it. For example, "The report will not be sent "unless requested" by the manager".

What's a more formal alternative to "unless requested"?

A more formal alternative could be "except when requisitioned" or "only upon specific request". These options add a layer of formality suitable for official communications.

Is it correct to use "unless requested" at the beginning of a sentence?

Yes, it is grammatically correct, but less common. Starting with "unless requested" can create a conditional emphasis. For example, "Unless requested, we will proceed with the default settings".

What's the difference between "unless requested" and "unless required"?

"Unless requested" implies a personal appeal or asking, while "unless required" suggests a necessity based on rules or standards. Request is based on one's will, require is not.