we respectfully ask that

USAGE SUMMARY

"we respectfully ask that" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is generally used as a polite way of making a request in formal writing. For example, "We respectfully ask that you provide us with an update on the status of the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

"We respectfully ask that D.O.T. remove the newly installed 'No Stopping' signs from the east side of Kent Avenue and that you paint over the northbound bike lane until such time as an appropriate community-endorsed solution can be developed," the letter stated.

The New York Times

"We respectfully ask that the Department of the Treasury bring back paper savings bonds and keep this American tradition alive".

The New York Times

We respectfully ask that any future articles reflect the differences between the positions and actions of companies in our industry.

The New York Times

— Gregory Meeks, a Democratic congressman for New York "While we commend your years of service to our party and your leadership through many tough times, we respectfully ask that you step aside as the top Democrat in the House".

The New Yorker

Because the actual assignment of interviews is not conducted by the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, we respectfully ask that you do not call or write to inquire about receiving an interview.

Columbia University

Thanks for understanding,' or 'We respectfully ask that this is an adults-only ceremony and reception'.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

"We would respectfully ask that, instead of you visiting All Saints' on Nov. 9, 2003, you send Bishop Gray for confirmation," the parishioner read.

The New York Times - Magazine

Finally, should you choose to editorialize on this topic in the future, in the spirit of full disclosure, we would respectfully ask that you include information on editors, executives and major investors in your organization who own property on our land and have a personal financial stake in the outcome of this debate.

The New York Times

"We respectfully ask you not to include that painting in your exhibition, in order to spare the respectful feelings of the Chinese people towards Chairman Mao".

Vice

But as Iraq once again teeters on the brink, we respectfully ask America's leaders to understand that unconditional support for Mr. Maliki is pushing Iraq down the path to civil war.

The New York Times

We respectfully ask you and your administration to find a solution that ensures that no veterans are stuck in the VA backlog.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we respectfully ask that" when addressing superiors, clients, or in formal correspondence where politeness and respect are essential.

Common error

Avoid using "we respectfully ask that" in casual conversations or informal emails. Opt for more direct or conversational language to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we respectfully ask that" primarily functions as a polite request opener. According to Ludwig AI, it serves to soften the directness of a demand, making it suitable for formal communications. It sets a tone of consideration and deference, framing the subsequent request in a respectful manner, as seen in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we respectfully ask that" is a grammatically correct and polite way to make a formal request. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness in written English, particularly in professional settings. While not overly common, its usage is concentrated in News & Media and Academic contexts, indicating a formal tone. Alternatives such as "we kindly request that" can be used in slightly less formal scenarios. Remember to reserve this phrase for situations where deference and politeness are paramount to avoid sounding unnatural in casual conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we kindly request that

Substitutes "respectfully ask" with a more gentle term, maintaining politeness.

we formally request that

Replaces "respectfully" with "formally", emphasizing the official nature of the request.

we humbly request that

Uses "humbly" instead of "respectfully", adding a sense of deference.

it is our respectful request that

Rephrases the sentence to emphasize the request itself as respectful.

we appeal to you to

Shifts from a direct request to an appeal, suggesting urgency or importance.

we urge you to

Expresses a stronger sense of necessity than a simple request.

we advise that you

Presents the request as advice, softening the directive nature.

we propose that you

Suggests a course of action rather than making a direct request.

we suggest that you

Offers a recommendation, less forceful than a direct request.

we recommend that you

Provides a formal endorsement of a particular action.

FAQs

What does "we respectfully ask that" mean?

It is a polite and formal way of making a request, indicating that the speaker or writer is being considerate and respectful in their approach. It's used to soften the directness of a request, showing deference to the recipient.

When is it appropriate to use "we respectfully ask that"?

It is appropriate in formal settings, such as business communications, official letters, or when addressing someone in a position of authority. Using alternatives like "we kindly request that" might be more suitable in less formal contexts.

What are some alternatives to "we respectfully ask that"?

Alternatives include "we kindly request that", "we formally request that", or simply "we request that" depending on the level of formality required. The choice depends on the specific context and the relationship with the recipient.

How can I use "we respectfully ask that" in a sentence?

You can use it to introduce a request within a sentence. For example, "We are writing to you today and "we respectfully ask that" you consider our proposal favourably." Remember to maintain a formal and polite tone throughout the rest of the communication.