we respectfully submit

USAGE SUMMARY

'We respectfully submit' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
This phrase is often used to preface a formal letter or request, such as when submitting a proposal or application. Example: We respectfully submit our application for a grant to help fund our charitable organization.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

No one, we respectfully submit, can dispute the grief that she feels.

The Guardian

"We respectfully submit that reciting the 44 words of the First Amendment, you have a First Amendment right to do that," Mr. Siegel added.

The New York Times

Commenting on this part of the tape, Mr. Gottlieb said in his papers, "We respectfully submit that this should come as no shock to anyone who is at all familiar with Yoko Ono and the Beatles".

The New York Times

"We respectfully submit that consideration of controversial provisions at this late hour can harm our shared purpose of getting a good bill to the president before the 108th Congress adjourns," Lee Hamilton, the vice chairman of the panel, told reporters.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"We respectfully submit that this case presents possibly the most unique and egregious example of a speedy trial violation in American jurisprudence to date," Mr. Ghailani's lawyers said in a document that was heavily censored because of its reliance on classified information.

The New York Times

We respectfully submit that the answer is emphatically and without qualification, 'No.' " The lawyers cited a 1972 Supreme Court decision that said judges must weigh several factors in assessing a speedy trial claim, including the length of and reason for a delay, and the prejudice caused to the defendant.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

"We will respectfully submit to the decision of shareholders," the firms said in a statement issued after the close of trading.

The New York Times

In any case, I would respectfully submit that we, the users of Google+ (and Facebook or Twitter) don't need to see you flipping us off, nor do we need to see you naked, or displaying something else generally considered offensive.

The Guardian - Tech

Today, I would respectfully submit that my father's pedagogical method was a failure.

The New Yorker

"But I would respectfully submit you don't drain a swamp with a slogan.

The Washington Post

I would respectfully submit, however, that these optimists have no idea what they are talking about.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we respectfully submit", ensure the subsequent statement is well-supported by evidence or reasoning to maintain credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "we respectfully submit" in informal contexts or when addressing individuals on a casual basis, as it may sound overly stilted or insincere. In these scenarios, opt for more straightforward alternatives such as "we suggest" or "we propose".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we respectfully submit" functions as a formal introductory clause. It is used to preface a statement, proposal, or document, indicating that the speaker or writer is presenting their views or materials with deference and politeness. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase serves to formally introduce submissions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we respectfully submit" is a grammatically sound and appropriate phrase for formal written communication. As Ludwig AI confirms, its primary function is to introduce a statement, proposal, or document while conveying respect and politeness. It is most frequently encountered in news articles, academic writing and scientific articles, suggesting a formal and professional register. When using this phrase, ensure the context warrants such formality and that the ensuing content is well-supported. Consider alternative phrasing like "we hereby submit" or simply "we suggest" for different contexts. Common errors include overuse in informal settings, which can make your communication sound awkward.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we hereby submit

Replaces "respectfully" with "hereby", emphasizing the official nature of the submission, often used in legal or formal contexts.

we humbly submit

Substitutes "respectfully" with "humbly", adding a tone of deference and humility to the submission.

we wish to submit

Replaces the adverb with a verb, indicating a desire or intention to submit something.

it is our submission that

Transforms the phrase into a formal statement of opinion or argument, often used in legal or academic settings.

we offer for your consideration

Replaces "submit" with a more inviting phrase, suggesting that something is being presented for review.

we put forward

Uses a more active verb to indicate the act of presenting an idea or proposal.

we propose

Offers a direct and concise way to introduce a suggestion or plan.

we suggest

A more tentative way to introduce an idea, implying less assertiveness.

we contend

Introduces a statement that is being argued or defended.

we assert

Emphasizes the act of stating something firmly and confidently.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "we respectfully submit" for a less formal tone?

For a less formal tone, you can use alternatives such as "we suggest", "we propose", or "we believe" depending on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to use "we respectfully submit" in formal writing?

While "we respectfully submit" is appropriate for formal writing, it's not always necessary. Consider the specific audience and purpose of your writing. Alternatives like "we hereby submit" or simply stating your point directly may be more effective in certain situations.

What's the difference between "we respectfully submit" and "we humbly submit"?

"We respectfully submit" implies politeness and deference, while "we humbly submit" suggests a greater degree of humility and submissiveness. Choose the phrase that best aligns with the tone and relationship you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "we respectfully submit"?

It is appropriate to use "we respectfully submit" when presenting an argument, proposal, or document to someone in a position of authority, such as a judge, professor, or client. It demonstrates politeness and professionalism while conveying your point.