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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
we previously requested
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "we previously requested" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a prior request made in a conversation or correspondence. Example: "In our last meeting, we previously requested the updated report by the end of the week."
✓ Grammatically correct
Alternative expressions(1)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
60 human-written examples
This update did not provide a detailed schedule, as we had previously requested, and lacks metrics on how progress will be demonstrated.
News & Media
"We have determined that some of this material is the type of information previously requested by the committee during the course of its review and that some of this information is relevant to the committee's report," Colglazier noted.
Science & Research
Following acquisition, we assessed the correspondence between requests and subsequent item selections by requiring the student to select the previously requested snack item from an array containing all six items.
Her letter confirmed that she had previously requested an audit.
News & Media
The editor had previously requested "significant" changes to other programmes in the series.
News & Media
Mr. Knight had previously requested to be let out of his contract with the show.
News & Media
Despite this, most police agencies could not explain how old metadata they had previously requested was.
News & Media
He said the brigade had previously requested reinforcements from a Tripoli-based rival parliament which had not arrived.
News & Media
But the deal does not require Russia to increase the domestic gas price as fast as Brussels had previously requested.
News & Media
The MoD previously requested US help to search for a suspected Russian submarine off the Scottish coast in January.
News & Media
Customers have previously requested colors matched to a favorite nail polish and even a turquoise kitchen mixer.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Consider the formality of your audience. While "we previously requested" is generally suitable for professional settings, consider using simpler alternatives like "we asked earlier" in more informal communications.
Common error
Avoid using "we previously requested" without specifying the subject of the request. If the recipient is unaware of the initial request, provide a brief reminder for clarity.
Source & Trust
60%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "we previously requested" serves as a polite reminder of a prior request, often used in professional or formal communication. It assumes that the recipient is aware of the initial request. As confirmed by Ludwig, the sentence is correct.
Frequent in
Science
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News & Media
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Formal & Business
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Less common in
Science
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News & Media
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Formal & Business
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Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "we previously requested" is a grammatically sound phrase used to politely refer back to a prior request. While Ludwig confirms its correctness, it's important to consider the context and audience when using it. In formal and professional settings, it's appropriate, but simpler alternatives like "we asked earlier" might be better suited for informal situations. Ensure clarity by specifying the subject of the request to avoid any confusion. Though there are no specific usage examples available, it's understood to be a correct sentence.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
we had requested before
Simple rephrasing using 'before' instead of 'previously'.
we already requested
Emphasizes that the request was made at some point in the past.
we had earlier asked for
More direct and slightly less formal.
we initially asked for
Highlights that it was the first request made.
we formerly inquired about
More formal and emphasizes the inquiry aspect.
we have a prior request for
Highlights the existence of a prior request.
we had put in a request earlier
Emphasizes the action of submitting a formal request.
it was previously requested by us
Passive voice construction, emphasizing the request itself.
our previous request was for
Focuses on the request itself rather than the action of requesting.
we sent a request beforehand
More casual and emphasizes the timing of the request.
FAQs
What does "we previously requested" mean?
It means that a request was made at an earlier time. It's a polite way to remind someone of a prior request.
How can I rephrase "we previously requested" to sound more formal?
You could use alternatives such as "we formerly inquired about" or "it was previously requested by us".
Is it okay to use "we previously requested" in an email?
Yes, it's perfectly acceptable to use "we previously requested" in an email, especially in professional settings. However, be mindful of your audience. In a less formal setting you can use something simpler such as "we had earlier asked for".
What's the difference between "we previously requested" and "we requested earlier"?
The difference is subtle. "We previously requested" sounds slightly more formal, while "we requested earlier" is more direct and straightforward. Both are generally acceptable.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
60%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested