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B1 noun|verb #8 most common 16 min read

request

Top 8

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips request in 30 Seconds

Explanation request in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'request' is a word you might see in very simple instructions or signs. It basically means 'to ask for something' in a polite way. You can think of it as a more grown-up version of 'ask'. For example, if you are at a hotel, you might see a sign that says 'Please request extra towels at the front desk.' This just means you should ask the people at the desk if you want more towels. It is a good word to know because it is very polite. When you use 'request', people will think you have very good manners. You don't need to use it all the time; 'ask' is usually fine. But when you want to be extra nice or formal, 'request' is a great choice. Just remember, it's a bit more formal than 'want' or 'need'. Instead of saying 'I want a menu,' you could say 'I request a menu,' although in a restaurant, 'Can I have a menu, please?' is even more common. At this level, just focus on recognizing the word when you see it in polite signs or emails.

At the A2 level, you can start using 'request' in your own writing, especially in simple emails. It is a very useful word for making polite asks. For example, if you are writing to a teacher, you might say, 'I would like to request more time for my homework.' This sounds much more professional than 'I need more time.' You will also see this word a lot on the internet. When you want to be someone's friend on a social media site, you send them a 'friend request'. This is the noun form of the word. It means 'the act of asking'. Another common place you will see it is in forms. A form might ask for your 'request details'. This just means the specific things you are asking for. Remember that 'request' is more formal than 'ask'. Use 'ask' with your friends and family, and use 'request' when you are talking to someone you don't know well or someone in a position of authority, like a boss or a doctor. It helps you sound respectful and clear.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'request' as both a noun and a verb in various contexts. This is a key word for business English and formal communication. You should know that as a verb, we don't usually use 'for' after it. So, you 'request a meeting', you don't 'request for a meeting'. This is a very common mistake at this level, so try to avoid it! You should also learn some common phrases like 'at the request of' (because someone asked) and 'upon request' (if you ask for it). For example, 'The report was written at the request of the manager' or 'More information is available upon request.' These phrases make your English sound much more natural and professional. You might also encounter 'request' in the context of customer service, where you might have to 'submit a request' to get help with a product. At this level, you are moving beyond simple asking and starting to navigate more complex social and professional interactions where politeness and formality are important.

At the B2 level, you should understand the subtle differences between 'request' and its synonyms like 'demand', 'require', or 'solicit'. You should also be able to use more complex grammatical structures with 'request'. For example, you can use the 'that' clause: 'The committee requested that the project be completed by June.' Notice the use of 'be' instead of 'is'—this is the subjunctive mood, which is common with 'request' in formal writing. You should also be aware of how 'request' is used in different fields. In technology, you'll hear about 'server requests'. In law, you'll hear about 'requests for evidence'. You should be able to use the word to manage tone in your writing. If you want to be firm but polite, 'request' is perfect. It shows you are in a position to ask for something but you are doing it with respect. You should also be able to use the passive voice: 'You are requested to attend.' This is very common in formal invitations and official notices. At this level, 'request' is a tool for precise and sophisticated communication.

At the C1 level, you should have a deep understanding of the nuances of 'request' in highly formal and academic contexts. You should be able to use it to navigate complex power dynamics and social protocols. For instance, in diplomatic or high-level corporate communications, the choice between 'request', 'urge', 'entreat', and 'petition' can have significant implications. You should be able to use 'request' in its most formal structures, such as 'The board requests the pleasure of your company,' or in complex legal phrases like 'a request for judicial review'. You should also be aware of the word's etymology and how its history as a 'quest' or 'search' informs its modern usage. At this level, you should be able to identify when 'request' is being used ironically or sarcastically in literature or high-level discourse. You should also be proficient in using the word in technical contexts, such as explaining how an API handles multiple simultaneous requests. Your usage should be flawless, reflecting a complete mastery of both the grammar and the social 'weight' of the word.

At the C2 level, your mastery of 'request' should be absolute, allowing you to use it with total precision in any context, from legal briefs to poetic prose. You should understand the historical development of the word from its Latin roots through Old French and how it has evolved to represent a specific type of social interaction. You should be able to analyze the use of 'request' in historical documents and understand the subtle shifts in politeness and authority it represented in different eras. In your own writing, you should be able to use 'request' to create specific rhetorical effects, perhaps using it to establish a tone of detached professionalism or to highlight a contrast between a polite form and a demanding reality. You should be comfortable with all its collocations and idiomatic uses, and be able to explain the grammatical intricacies of the subjunctive mood that it often triggers. At this level, 'request' is not just a word but a versatile instrument for fine-tuning the social and intellectual impact of your communication, demonstrating a profound grasp of the English language's capacity for nuance and formal elegance.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

request in 30 Seconds

Request is a formal and polite way to ask for something, used as both a noun and a verb in professional and social settings.
As a verb, it is transitive and usually does not take the preposition 'for', whereas the noun form often does (e.g., 'request a raise' vs 'request for a raise').
It is common in technology (server requests), music (song requests), and law (formal petitions), signaling a structured exchange of information or services.
Mastering 'request' involves understanding its polite nuance compared to 'ask' and its mandatory difference from 'require', ensuring appropriate tone and clarity.

The word request serves as both a noun and a verb, acting as a cornerstone of polite communication in the English language. At its core, it signifies the act of asking for something, but it carries a weight of formality and politeness that the simple word 'ask' often lacks. When you request something, you are not merely inquiring; you are expressing a desire or a need for an action, an object, or information, typically within a structured or professional context. This word is ubiquitous in business environments, customer service, and formal social interactions. For instance, a manager might request a report, or a guest might request a late checkout at a hotel. The nuance lies in the expectation of a response or fulfillment, often governed by rules or etiquette. In the digital age, 'request' has also taken on technical meanings, such as an HTTP request where one computer asks another for data. Understanding this word involves recognizing the social contract of politeness—it is a way to exert influence or seek assistance without being demanding or rude.

Formal Application: In professional settings, a request is often documented. It implies a level of officiality that requires a formal response, such as a 'Request for Proposal' (RFP) in business procurement.

The diplomat submitted a formal request for an audience with the prime minister to discuss the new trade agreement.

Beyond the professional sphere, 'request' is common in the arts and media. Think of a radio DJ taking song requests from listeners. Here, the word bridges the gap between a personal wish and a public action. It suggests that the listener has a choice and the DJ has the power to grant it. This dynamic of 'asker' and 'granter' is central to the word's usage. It is also a frequent term in legal contexts, where a 'request for discovery' is a formal demand for evidence. The versatility of 'request' allows it to scale from the mundane—requesting a glass of water—to the monumental—requesting a stay of execution. It is a word that balances power dynamics through the medium of language, ensuring that even when one party needs something from another, the interaction remains civil and structured.

Interpersonal Nuance: When used between friends, 'request' can sometimes sound slightly humorous or overly dramatic because of its inherent formality, as in 'I request your presence at my humble pizza party.'

The software will request permission to access your location before the map can be displayed correctly.

Historically, the word carries the weight of a 'quest'—a search or a seeking out. This adds a layer of intentionality to the word. You aren't just asking by chance; you are seeking a specific outcome. In literature, a character might request a favor that sets the entire plot in motion. This demonstrates the word's role as a catalyst for action. Whether it is a 'friend request' on social media or a 'prayer request' in a religious community, the word signifies a desire for connection and response. It is a fundamental unit of human cooperation, allowing us to coordinate our needs and resources through polite solicitation rather than force or coercion.

At the request of the family, no flowers were sent to the funeral, and donations were made to charity instead.

Technical Context: In computing, a 'pull request' is a method of submitting contributions to an open-source project, highlighting the collaborative nature of the word.

The customer made a special request for a gluten-free meal, which the chef was happy to accommodate.

We request that all passengers remain seated until the aircraft has come to a complete stop.

Mastering the usage of request requires an understanding of its dual nature as a noun and a verb, as well as the specific grammatical structures that accompany each. As a verb, 'request' is transitive, meaning it directly acts upon an object. You request something (a favor, information, a meeting). One of the most common mistakes for learners is adding the preposition 'for' after the verb. While you 'ask for' something, you simply 'request' it. For example, 'She requested a copy of the contract' is correct, whereas 'She requested for a copy' is not. This distinction is vital for achieving a professional tone in writing. Furthermore, the verb can be followed by a 'that' clause, often employing the subjunctive mood in formal English: 'I request that he be present at the meeting.' This adds a layer of high-level formality often seen in legal or corporate directives.

Verb Patterns: Common patterns include: [Subject] + request + [Object] ('He requested help') and [Subject] + request + [that-clause] ('They requested that we leave').

The board of directors requested a detailed breakdown of the quarterly expenses by Friday afternoon.

As a noun, 'request' is frequently paired with the preposition 'for'. You make a request for something. It is also often found in the phrase 'at the request of,' which indicates who initiated the action. For instance, 'The meeting was called at the request of the CEO.' This construction is very common in news reporting and formal documentation. Another useful noun phrase is 'upon request,' which means that something will be provided if it is asked for. You might see 'References available upon request' at the bottom of a resume. This implies a willingness to provide more information but only when specifically asked, maintaining a professional boundary. The noun can also be modified by various adjectives to indicate the nature of the asking: a 'formal request,' a 'special request,' a 'written request,' or an 'urgent request.'

Noun Phrases: 'In response to your request,' 'To grant a request,' 'To deny a request,' and 'To submit a request' are essential collocations for office work.

The library has a large collection of rare books that can be viewed only upon request in the reading room.

In more complex sentences, 'request' can be used to soften a command. Instead of saying 'Do this,' a polite leader might say, 'I would like to request that you complete this task.' This uses the modal 'would like to' alongside 'request' to create a very respectful tone. In passive voice, 'request' is also quite common: 'You are requested to attend the ceremony.' This sounds very official and is often found on invitations. Understanding these variations allows a speaker to navigate different social hierarchies effectively. Whether you are the one making the request or the one responding to it, using the correct grammatical structure ensures that the message is clear and the tone is appropriate for the situation.

Despite her many requests for assistance, the tenant received no help from the landlord regarding the broken heater.

The Subjunctive Mood: In very formal writing, the verb 'request' triggers the base form of the following verb: 'They requested that he stay' (not 'stays').

If you wish to cancel your subscription, please send a written request to our billing department at least thirty days in advance.

The singer requested that the audience refrain from taking flash photography during the intimate acoustic set.

In the real world, request is a staple of professional and public discourse. If you work in an office, your inbox is likely filled with requests. These can range from a simple 'request for a meeting' to a more complex 'request for data analysis.' In these contexts, the word serves as a polite signal that an action is needed. It is less aggressive than a command but more formal than a casual ask. You will also hear it frequently in the hospitality industry. When you check into a hotel, the receptionist might ask if you have any 'special requests,' such as a room with a view or extra pillows. This usage highlights the word's connection to service and customer satisfaction. It frames the customer's needs as something the business is eager to fulfill, reinforcing a positive service dynamic.

In the Workplace: 'I'm calling to request an update on the project' is a standard way to follow up with a colleague without sounding accusatory.

The HR department sent out a request for all employees to update their emergency contact information by the end of the month.

Public announcements are another common place to hear 'request.' At an airport, you might hear, 'We request that all passengers proceed to Gate 12.' In this scenario, the word is used to maintain order and authority while remaining polite to the public. It is a form of 'soft power.' Similarly, on the radio or at a live concert, the performer might say, 'This next song is a request from Sarah in London.' Here, the word connects the performer to the audience, showing that the audience's preferences are being heard and valued. This social aspect of 'requesting'—the idea of a shared experience where one person's wish is granted by another—is a powerful tool for building community and rapport.

In Media and Entertainment: Radio stations often have 'request lines' where listeners can call in to ask for their favorite tracks to be played on air.

During the wedding reception, the band took several requests from the guests, keeping the dance floor full all night long.

The digital world is perhaps where we see 'request' most frequently today. Social media platforms are built on 'friend requests' or 'follow requests.' In this context, the word has been somewhat democratized and simplified. It represents a digital 'knock on the door,' asking for permission to enter someone's social circle. In the world of software development, 'API requests' are the invisible threads that hold the internet together, as one application requests data from another. Whether it is a human asking a human or a machine asking a machine, the fundamental concept remains the same: a polite, structured solicitation for a specific response. Hearing or seeing the word 'request' should immediately signal to you that a process of exchange is being initiated, requiring a decision or an action to move forward.

The website was slow to load because it was processing too many data requests from users at the same time.

Legal and Official Use: 'Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests' are formal legal tools used by journalists and citizens to obtain data from the government.

The judge requested that the lawyers approach the bench for a private discussion regarding the witness's testimony.

Please request a receipt if you need to be reimbursed for your travel expenses by the company.

One of the most frequent errors involving request stems from its similarity to the verb 'ask'. While we say 'ask for something,' the verb 'request' is transitive and does not typically take the preposition 'for'. For example, saying 'I requested for a glass of water' is a common mistake; the correct form is 'I requested a glass of water.' This error often occurs because learners are translating directly from their native language or over-applying the rule for 'ask'. However, it is important to note that the noun form *does* use 'for', as in 'My request for a glass of water was ignored.' This switch between needing 'for' as a noun but not as a verb is a major point of confusion for many students. Remembering 'Request (verb) = Ask for' can help you avoid this pitfall.

The 'For' Trap: Incorrect: 'He requested for a meeting.' Correct: 'He requested a meeting.' OR 'He made a request for a meeting.'

Correct: She requested more information. Incorrect: She requested for more information.

Another common mistake is using 'request' in a context that is too casual, which can make the speaker sound stiff or even sarcastic. For instance, asking a friend, 'I request that you pass the salt,' sounds unnaturally formal and might be perceived as a joke. In casual settings, 'ask' or 'can you' is much more appropriate. 'Request' should be reserved for situations where there is a clear professional distance or a need for formal politeness. Additionally, confusion sometimes arises between 'request' and 'require'. While 'request' is a polite ask, 'require' is a necessity or a demand. If a job 'requires' a degree, it is mandatory. If a job 'requests' a degree, it is preferred but perhaps not essential. Mixing these up can lead to significant misunderstandings in professional communications.

Request vs. Require: Request = A polite ask (optional to fulfill). Require = A mandatory need (must be fulfilled).

The application requires a password, but it requests your phone number for extra security.

Finally, learners sometimes struggle with the passive construction 'You are requested to...' This is a very formal way of giving an instruction, often seen on invitations or in official notices. Some might try to say 'You are requested for...' which is incorrect. The correct pattern is 'You are requested to [verb]'. For example, 'You are requested to attend the meeting' or 'You are requested to refrain from smoking.' This structure is useful for maintaining a high level of decorum. Misusing the preposition here can break the formal tone you are trying to achieve. By paying close attention to these subtle grammatical rules—avoiding 'for' with the verb, choosing the right level of formality, and using the correct passive structure—you can use 'request' with the confidence of a native speaker.

The guests are requested to be seated by 6:00 PM for the start of the ceremony.

Countability: 'Request' is a countable noun. You can have 'a request,' 'two requests,' or 'many requests.' Do not use it as an uncountable noun.

I have several requests regarding the new office layout that I would like to discuss.

The manager requested that everyone turn off their phones during the presentation.

While request is a versatile word, English offers a variety of synonyms that can provide more specific shades of meaning depending on the context. The most common alternative is 'ask,' which is neutral and suitable for almost any situation. However, if you want to sound more formal or professional, 'request' is the better choice. If the asking is very urgent or emotional, you might use 'beg' or 'plead.' These words suggest a lack of power on the part of the asker and a high level of desperation. In a legal or official context, 'petition' is often used, implying a formal written request signed by many people. Understanding these differences helps you choose the word that perfectly fits the emotional and social tone of your message.

Request vs. Ask: 'Ask' is casual and direct. 'Request' is formal and polite. You ask a friend for a favor; you request a meeting with a director.

Instead of just asking for help, he submitted a formal request to the IT department.

Another set of alternatives includes 'solicit' and 'appeal.' To 'solicit' often means to ask for something in a systematic way, such as soliciting donations or soliciting feedback. It carries a sense of actively seeking out responses. An 'appeal,' on the other hand, is a serious or urgent request, often made to the public or a higher authority. For example, a charity might make an appeal for funds after a natural disaster. In a legal sense, an appeal is a request to a higher court to change a decision. If you are asking for something very politely and perhaps a bit indirectly, you might use 'entreat' or 'beseech,' though these are quite literary and rare in modern conversation. They evoke a sense of deep respect and earnestness.

Request vs. Demand: A 'request' is a polite ask that can be refused. A 'demand' is an insistent requirement that expects immediate compliance.

The protesters demanded change, but the government only requested more time to study the situation.

Finally, consider 'query' and 'inquiry.' These are more focused on asking for information rather than asking for an action or an object. A 'query' is often a specific question, especially one directed at a database or a computer system. An 'inquiry' is a more general act of asking for information or a formal investigation. If you are writing a business letter, you might start with 'I am writing to inquire about...' rather than 'I am writing to request information about...' both are correct, but 'inquire' focuses on the seeking of knowledge. By expanding your vocabulary with these alternatives, you can communicate your needs with greater precision and sensitivity to the social context of the interaction.

The organization solicited feedback from its members to improve the quality of its services.

Request vs. Petition: A 'request' is usually individual. A 'petition' is a collective request, often formal and written, aimed at a government or authority.

The students petitioned the university to extend the library hours during final exams week.

We beseech you to reconsider your decision before it is too late for the project to succeed.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The word 'quest' is hidden inside 'request'. Historically, a request was seen as a small quest to obtain something you needed.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /rɪˈkwest/

US /rɪˈkwest/

Second syllable: re-QUEST

Rhymes With

best chest guest invest test west arrest suggest

Common Errors

Stressing the first syllable: RE-quest (incorrect for the verb and common noun).
Pronouncing the 'qu' as 'k' instead of 'kw'.
Using a long 'e' sound in the first syllable (ree-quest).
Muffling the 't' at the end.
Confusing it with 'bequest' (a different word).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Commonly found in signs and basic formal text.

Writing 3/5

Requires care with prepositions (no 'for' after the verb).

Speaking 3/5

Stress and tone are important for politeness.

Listening 2/5

Easily recognizable in formal announcements.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

ask want need please help

Learn Next

require solicit petition formal official

Advanced

subjunctive mood transitive verbs social protocol RFP API

Grammar to Know

Transitive Verbs

You request *something* (no 'for').

The Subjunctive Mood

I request that he *be* present.

Countable Nouns

I have two *requests*.

Passive Voice

You *are requested* to attend.

Prepositional Phrases

Available *upon request*.

Examples by Level

Please request a menu from the waiter.

Por favor, pida un menú al camarero.

Request is used here as a polite verb.

You can request a taxi at the hotel desk.

Puede solicitar un taxi en la recepción del hotel.

Request means 'ask for' in a formal way.

I have a small request for you.

Tengo una pequeña petición para ti.

Request is a noun here.

Did you request more water?

¿Pediste más agua?

Simple past tense of the verb request.

Please request help if you need it.

Por favor, pida ayuda si la necesita.

Imperative form of the verb.

The teacher will request your homework now.

El profesor pedirá tu tarea ahora.

Future tense with 'will'.

I sent a friend request to Sam.

Le envié una solicitud de amistad a Sam.

Common noun phrase: 'friend request'.

Can I request a different room?

¿Puedo solicitar una habitación diferente?

Using 'can' to make a polite request.

She requested a window seat for her flight.

Ella solicitó un asiento de ventana para su vuelo.

Past tense verb without 'for'.

The manager made a request for a meeting.

El gerente hizo una solicitud para una reunión.

Noun form followed by 'for'.

Please submit your request in writing.

Por favor, envíe su solicitud por escrito.

Formal instruction using 'submit'.

He ignored my request to be quiet.

Él ignoró mi petición de estar en silencio.

Noun followed by an infinitive 'to be'.

They requested that we arrive early.

Ellos pidieron que llegáramos temprano.

Verb followed by a 'that' clause.

Is there a special request for the music?

¿Hay alguna petición especial para la música?

Adjective 'special' modifying the noun.

The company requested more time to finish.

La empresa solicitó más tiempo para terminar.

Transitive verb with a direct object.

I will request a refund for the broken toy.

Solicitaré un reembolso por el juguete roto.

Future tense 'will request'.

The documents are available upon request.

Los documentos están disponibles bajo petición.

Fixed phrase: 'upon request'.

At the request of the police, the road was closed.

A petición de la policía, la carretera fue cerrada.

Fixed phrase: 'at the request of'.

I requested that he send the files immediately.

Pedí que enviara los archivos de inmediato.

Subjunctive mood: 'send' (not sends).

She denied his request for a salary increase.

Ella rechazó su solicitud de aumento de sueldo.

Verb 'deny' used with the noun 'request'.

The customer service team is handling your request.

El equipo de atención al cliente está gestionando su solicitud.

Present continuous tense.

We request that all visitors sign in at the desk.

Pedimos que todos los visitantes se registren en el mostrador.

Formal collective 'we request'.

His request for a transfer was finally granted.

Su solicitud de traslado fue finalmente concedida.

Passive voice 'was granted'.

I'm writing to request information about your courses.

Escribo para solicitar información sobre sus cursos.

Standard opening for a formal letter.

The government ignored the request for a public inquiry.

El gobierno ignoró la petición de una investigación pública.

Formal noun phrase 'public inquiry'.

You are requested to refrain from using mobile phones.

Se le solicita que se abstenga de usar teléfonos móviles.

Very formal passive construction.

The software sends a request to the server every minute.

El software envía una solicitud al servidor cada minuto.

Technical usage in computing.

She made a formal request to the board of directors.

Ella hizo una solicitud formal a la junta directiva.

Collocation: 'formal request'.

The request was met with a firm refusal.

La petición fue recibida con una negativa firme.

Passive voice with a prepositional phrase.

He requested that the matter be kept confidential.

Él pidió que el asunto se mantuviera en secreto.

Formal subjunctive: 'be kept'.

The singer's only request was for a bowl of green M&Ms.

La única petición del cantante fue un tazón de M&Ms verdes.

Noun used in a humorous/specific context.

The application for the grant requires a formal request.

La solicitud para la subvención requiere una petición formal.

Using 'require' and 'request' in the same sentence.

The diplomat's request for asylum was under review.

La solicitud de asilo del diplomático estaba bajo revisión.

High-level political/legal context.

They requested that the witness be granted immunity.

Solicitaron que al testigo se le concediera inmunidad.

Legal subjunctive construction.

The frequency of data requests overwhelmed the system.

La frecuencia de las solicitudes de datos abrumó al sistema.

Technical noun phrase 'data requests'.

At the behest of the king, the request was granted.

A instancias del rey, la petición fue concedida.

Formal/archaic synonym 'behest' used with 'request'.

The request for a ceasefire was rejected by both sides.

La petición de un alto el fuego fue rechazada por ambas partes.

International relations context.

She handled the request with remarkable diplomacy.

Ella manejó la petición con una diplomacia notable.

Describing the manner of handling a request.

The request was phrased in such a way as to avoid offense.

La petición fue redactada de tal manera que evitara la ofensa.

Focusing on the linguistic framing of the request.

He was inundated with requests for interviews after the win.

Fue inundado con solicitudes de entrevistas tras la victoria.

Idiomatic verb 'inundated' with 'requests'.

The petition was a formal request for constitutional reform.

La petición fue una solicitud formal de reforma constitucional.

Political science context.

The request was predicated on the assumption of mutual aid.

La petición se basaba en el supuesto de ayuda mutua.

Advanced verb 'predicated' used with 'request'.

He acceded to her request with a sense of profound duty.

Él accedió a su petición con un sentido de profundo deber.

Formal verb 'accede' used with 'request'.

The request for discovery was a pivotal moment in the trial.

La solicitud de exhibición de pruebas fue un momento crucial en el juicio.

Specific legal term 'request for discovery'.

The subtle phrasing of the request belied its urgency.

La sutil redacción de la petición ocultaba su urgencia.

Literary analysis of a request.

The request was summarily dismissed by the high court.

La petición fue rechazada sumariamente por el tribunal superior.

Legal adverb 'summarily' with 'dismissed'.

The request for a stay of execution was denied at the last hour.

La petición de suspensión de la ejecución fue denegada a última hora.

Legal term 'stay of execution'.

The request for clarification was met with stony silence.

La petición de aclaración fue recibida con un silencio sepulcral.

Idiomatic expression 'stony silence'.

Common Collocations

formal request

special request

written request

urgent request

grant a request

deny a request

at the request of

upon request

friend request

data request

Common Phrases

By request

— Because someone has asked for it. Often used in music or performance.

The band played 'Yesterday' by request.

In response to your request

— A formal way to start a reply to someone who asked for something.

In response to your request, I am attaching the requested files.

Make a request

— The act of asking for something. A very common noun-verb pairing.

I would like to make a request for more office supplies.

Submit a request

— To officially give a request to someone for processing.

You need to submit a request through the online portal.

Request for proposal (RFP)

— A business document that asks for bids for a project.

The city issued an RFP for the new bridge construction.

At your request

— Because you asked for it. Shows service and politeness.

The changes were made at your request.

Request information

— To ask for facts or details about something.

Click here to request information about our products.

A polite request

— Asking for something in a respectful and kind manner.

It was just a polite request, not a command.

Processing a request

— The act of dealing with or fulfilling a request.

Please wait while we are processing your request.

Decline a request

— A polite way to say 'no' to a request.

The artist declined the request for an interview.

Often Confused With

request vs Require

Require means something is mandatory; request means it is asked for politely.

request vs Demand

Demand is forceful and expects compliance; request is polite and can be refused.

request vs Inquire

Inquire means to ask for information; request means to ask for an action or object.

Idioms & Expressions

"Your wish is my command"

— A humorous or very polite way to say you will do whatever someone requests.

You want pizza? Your wish is my command!

informal/humorous

"Ask and you shall receive"

— A biblical idiom meaning that if you request something, it will be given to you.

I didn't think they'd give me the day off, but ask and you shall receive.

literary/common

"At someone's beck and call"

— Always ready to obey someone's requests or commands immediately.

He expects his assistants to be at his beck and call 24/7.

neutral

"Beg, borrow, or steal"

— To do whatever is necessary to get something, even if it's more than a simple request.

I'll get those tickets, even if I have to beg, borrow, or steal.

informal

"Pull strings"

— To use secret influence or connections to get a request granted.

He pulled some strings to get his son a job at the bank.

informal

"Twist someone's arm"

— To persuade someone to do something they might not want to do, often after a request.

I didn't want to go, but she twisted my arm.

informal

"The squeaky wheel gets the grease"

— The person who makes the most noise or requests the most gets the attention.

I kept calling the landlord, and finally, he fixed the sink—the squeaky wheel gets the grease.

informal

"Don't ask, don't tell"

— A policy of not requesting information about something sensitive.

Regarding his past, we have a 'don't ask, don't tell' policy.

neutral/historical

"Ask for the moon"

— To make a request that is impossible to fulfill.

Expecting a 50% raise is like asking for the moon.

informal

"A tall order"

— A request or task that is very difficult to fulfill.

Finishing the project by tomorrow is a tall order.

informal

Easily Confused

request vs Request

Similar to 'ask for'.

Request is more formal and usually doesn't take 'for' as a verb.

I requested a drink.

request vs Require

Sounds similar.

Require is a need or a rule; request is a polite ask.

The job requires a degree.

request vs Requisition

Related root.

Requisition is a very formal, often military or bureaucratic, demand for supplies.

The army requisitioned the local trucks.

request vs Question

Both involve asking.

A question seeks an answer; a request seeks an action or item.

I have a question about the price.

request vs Solicit

Both mean asking.

Solicit often implies asking many people or asking for something specific like money or business.

No soliciting allowed in this building.

Sentence Patterns

Can I request a [noun]?

Can I request a menu?

I requested a [noun].

I requested a taxi.

I am writing to request [noun].

I am writing to request a refund.

[Noun] is available upon request.

The catalog is available upon request.

I request that [subject] [base verb].

I request that he stay.

At the request of [person], [action].

At the request of the boss, we started early.

You are requested to [verb].

You are requested to refrain from smoking.

The request was predicated on [noun].

The request was predicated on new evidence.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in both spoken and written English.

Common Mistakes

I requested for a meeting. → I requested a meeting.
The verb 'request' is transitive and does not need 'for'.
He requested that she stays. → He requested that she stay.
After 'request that', use the subjunctive (base) form of the verb.
I have much request. → I have many requests.
'Request' is a countable noun, so use 'many' instead of 'much'.
The job requests a degree. → The job requires a degree.
'Require' is for mandatory rules; 'request' is for polite asks.
You are requested for coming. → You are requested to come.
The passive structure is 'be requested + to + infinitive'.

Tips

No 'for' with verbs

Never say 'I requested for a raise'. Say 'I requested a raise'. This is the most common mistake.

Use in Emails

Start formal requests with 'I am writing to request...' to sound professional.

Softening

Use 'I would like to request' instead of 'I request' to sound even more polite.

Noun phrases

Learn 'at the request of' and 'upon request' as fixed blocks of language.

Digital Context

Understand 'pull requests' if you are learning to code; it's how people collaborate.

Officiality

In legal terms, a 'request' is often a formal step in a process, not just a casual ask.

Entertainment

Use 'by request' when playing a song someone asked for.

Manners

Always follow up a granted request with 'Thank you' to maintain the relationship.

Hierarchy

Use 'request' when asking someone 'up' the hierarchy (like a boss).

Be Specific

When you request something, be clear about what you need to avoid multiple follow-ups.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Quest'. To re-Quest is to go on a quest again to ask for what you need.

Visual Association

Imagine a formal letter with a big 'Q' that looks like a magnifying glass, seeking a favor.

Word Web

Ask Polite Formal Favor Song Email Boss Service

Challenge

Try to use 'request' in three different ways today: one in an email, one in a conversation about music, and one as a formal 'if' statement.

Word Origin

The word 'request' comes from the Old French word 'requeste', which in turn stems from the Vulgar Latin 'requaerere'. This Latin root is composed of 're-' (again/intensely) and 'quaerere' (to seek or ask).

Original meaning: The original meaning was 'to seek again' or 'to search for'. It evolved from a physical search to a verbal asking for something.

Indo-European -> Italic -> Latin -> Romance -> French -> English.

Cultural Context

Be careful not to use 'request' when a command is actually needed in high-stakes safety situations, as it might be too soft.

Using 'request' is a sign of professional maturity. It is expected in formal letters and emails.

The 'Friend Request' on Facebook changed how we use the word daily. Radio 'request lines' are a classic part of 20th-century music culture. The 'Request for Proposal' (RFP) is a standard document in global business.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

In a Hotel

Request a wake-up call
Request extra pillows
Special request
At your request

At Work

Request a meeting
Submit a request
Formal request
Request for information

On Social Media

Send a friend request
Accept a request
Follow request
Delete a request

In Music

Take song requests
By request
Request a track
Listener request

In Law

Request for discovery
Formal petition
Grant a request
Deny a request

Conversation Starters

"If you could request any song to be played right now, what would it be?"

"What is the most unusual request you've ever had to handle at work?"

"How do you usually handle it when someone denies your request?"

"Do you think it's better to 'ask' or 'request' when talking to a boss?"

"Have you ever made a special request at a restaurant that was hard to fulfill?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a time you made a request that changed your life.

Describe a situation where you had to deny someone's request. How did it feel?

Why is politeness important when making a request in a professional setting?

If you could make one request to the leaders of the world, what would it be?

Reflect on the difference between a 'request' and a 'demand' in your personal relationships.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

If it's a verb, use 'request' (e.g., 'I request a copy'). If it's a noun, use 'request for' (e.g., 'A request for a copy').

Yes, but it might sound a bit formal or even funny. 'Ask' is better for casual situations.

It means something will be given to you only if you ask for it first.

Generally, yes. It is more formal and respectful, especially in writing.

It is an invitation on social media to connect with someone.

Use the base form of the verb after 'that': 'I request that she *be* there.'

Yes, it is both a noun and a verb. 'He made a request' (noun) and 'He requested help' (verb).

The past tense is 'requested'.

It is when you ask a DJ or a band to play a specific song.

Yes, it refers to a message sent by one computer to another, like an 'HTTP request'.