unusual request

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unusual request" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to a request that is uncommon or out of the ordinary. For example, "I was surprised by his unusual request to bring him a pot of soup and a loaf of bread."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

This was an unusual request.

The New Yorker

"It's an extraordinarily unusual request," he said.

The New York Times

But every so often the commission receives an unusual request.

The New York Times

Recently, an unusual request turned up on the site.

The New Yorker

So despite the bride's unusual request, give her a call.

The New York Times

It's an unusual request of an auteur to an executive".

The New York Times - Magazine

Finally, in exasperation, the customer made an unusual request.

The New York Times

But Sky knew she wouldn't refuse him his unusual request.

The Guardian

Most unusual request: This gentleman came in and asked for fish gelatin.

The New York Times

She had an unusual request: to change clothes in the bathroom.

The New York Times

She said the most unusual request registered on the site was for contributions for fertility treatments.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "unusual request", provide context or explanation to clarify why the request is considered out of the ordinary.

Common error

Avoid using "unusual request" as a placeholder without specifying what makes the request uncommon. Always provide specifics to maintain clarity and avoid vagueness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unusual request" functions as a noun phrase, where "unusual" modifies the noun "request". As evidenced by the Ludwig AI, it describes a demand or proposition that deviates from the norm or standard expectations. It is typically used to highlight the unexpected or atypical nature of the request.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unusual request" is a commonly used phrase to describe a demand that deviates from the norm. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news and media. While alternatives like "unique request" or "exceptional request" can be used, it's crucial to provide context to justify the use of "unusual". It's worth noting that "unusual request" functions as a noun phrase, highlighting the atypical nature of the demand and setting the stage for further explanation or action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unique request

Emphasizes the one-of-a-kind nature of the request.

extraordinary request

Stresses the remarkable and outstanding nature of the request.

exceptional request

Highlights the extraordinary or uncommon nature of the request.

uncommon request

Highlights the infrequency of such a request.

odd request

Suggests the request is strange or peculiar.

atypical request

Indicates the request doesn't conform to the usual type.

curious request

Implies the request is intriguing and prompts further investigation.

peculiar request

Suggests a strange or eccentric quality of the request.

singular request

Emphasizes the uniqueness and distinctiveness of the request.

remarkable request

Highlights the noteworthy or significant nature of the request.

FAQs

How can I use "unusual request" in a sentence?

You can use "unusual request" to describe a demand that is not typical. For example, "The client's "unusual request" was to have the report delivered on a Sunday morning".

What's a more formal alternative to "unusual request"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "exceptional request" or "extraordinary request". These alternatives convey a similar meaning with a slightly elevated level of formality.

Is "uncommon request" the same as "unusual request"?

While similar, "uncommon request" emphasizes the infrequency of the request, whereas "unusual request" focuses on its deviation from the norm. They are often interchangeable, but the subtle difference in emphasis can be important depending on context.

What are some situations where I might encounter an "unusual request"?

You might encounter an "unusual request" in customer service, legal contexts, or creative projects where clients or individuals have needs that fall outside standard procedures or expectations.