verbal request

USAGE SUMMARY

"verbal request" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a spoken request. For example: "I made a verbal request to my boss for a raise yesterday."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

First, put your request in writing, either on paper or email – a verbal request doesn't count.

The Guardian - Money

STAIR fetching an item in response to a verbal request (6x speed) in 2007.

Stanford University

Among the questions: If Shavelson accepts a patient's first verbal request now, will it count toward the waiting period?

The Washington Post

Tomblin's office said he made an expedited verbal request to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (Fema) for individual assistance for Kanawha, Greenbrier and Nicholas counties.

The Guardian

Children with auditory processing problems, for example, may have trouble translating a verbal request like "put on your coat" into a physical action.

The New York Times

"These are patients who are in various stages of the process, all the way from a first verbal request to those about to get the medication," he said.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Under Gordon, papers or verbal requests disappeared into a black hole.

The Guardian

Regulators found that brokers at the firm colluded to fix yen Libor  interest rates, making 300 written, and potentially many more verbal, requests to alter the reported rate.

Independent

Oregon's 1997 Death with Dignity Act requires consultations with two doctors who confirm a person is terminal and will die within six months, certification that the persons is of sound mind, and then two verbal requests for a prescription.

The Guardian - Opinion

This puts the focus firmly on machine learning, developing voice-recognition products such as Google Home, a smart speaker that responds to verbal requests to play music or control lighting; and, increasingly, visual recognition.

The Guardian - Tech

The 911 caller added that the woman "didn't try to attack anybody or anything". It was unclear whether the officers realized Al-Bishara did not speak English, but, according to police, the woman did not respond to multiple verbal requests to put down her knife.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When documenting a "verbal request", always follow up with written confirmation to ensure clarity and avoid misunderstandings.

Common error

Don't assume a "verbal request" carries the same weight as a written one, especially in formal or legal contexts. Always confirm important requests in writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "verbal request" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to the act of making a request through spoken words, as seen in Ludwig's examples where it describes requests made to employers, government agencies, or within medical contexts. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

43%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

16%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "verbal request" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a request that is communicated orally. As Ludwig highlights, it’s widely used in various contexts, including news, science, and formal settings. While a "verbal request" is acceptable in many situations, it's essential to remember that it may not carry the same weight as a written request, especially in legal or formal contexts. Therefore, following up with written confirmation is often advisable. Consider alternatives like "spoken request" or "oral request" for variety. Overall, the phrase is a useful and straightforward way to describe the act of making a request through spoken words.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spoken request

Emphasizes the act of speaking the request, similar to "verbal request".

oral request

Uses "oral" as a synonym for "verbal", focusing on communication through speech.

vocal request

Highlights the use of voice in making the request.

stated request

Shifts the focus to the declaration of the request, rather than the method of communication.

expressed request

Similar to 'stated request', emphasizing the communication of the request.

request communicated verbally

Rephrases the original phrase, adding emphasis to the method of communication.

request made orally

Mirrors 'request communicated verbally', but emphasizes 'oral' over 'verbal'.

request by word of mouth

Emphasizes the informal nature of communicating a request directly.

request articulated verbally

Implies a more formal and clear expression of the request.

informal request

Highlights the non-written nature of the request while implying it may also lack formality.

FAQs

What is the difference between a "verbal request" and a written one?

A "verbal request" is communicated orally, while a written request is documented in writing. Written requests provide a clear record and are generally more formal.

In what situations is it best to avoid making a "verbal request"?

It's best to avoid "verbal requests" in legal matters, formal agreements, or any situation where documentation is crucial. Use written requests for clarity and accountability.

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "verbal request"?

You can use alternatives like "spoken request", "oral request", or "vocal request" depending on the context.

Is a "verbal request" legally binding?

Generally, a "verbal request" is less legally binding than a written agreement. The enforceability depends on the specific circumstances and applicable laws.