WordGarden.iorequest
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /rɪkwˈɛst/
US
- /riˈkwɛst/
Meanings
Noun
an act of asking for something or asking someone to do something
a message sent by software or a client asking a system or server for data or an action
Verb
to politely or formally ask for something or for someone to do something
to ask a program, device, server, or service for data, access, or an action
Beyond the definition
This word is not just about asking for something. It often carries a sense of politeness or formality, even when the situation is serious. You might request information from a librarian or request help from a colleague. It usually suggests that you are asking for something that another person can choose to give or refuse. Think of the difference between sending a formal written request and simply asking a friend to pass the salt. The word also works as a noun: "The office received several requests for a holiday extension."
To request something is to formally or politely ask for it. It is more deliberate than a casual inquiry; a request acknowledges that the other party has the power to either grant or deny your wish. Imagine a knight requesting an audience with the king—he doesn't simply barge in! Or consider a company requesting a permit from the city council before beginning construction.
The level of formality can vary, but the underlying respect remains. A simple "Could you please help me?" is a request, as is a fifty-page proposal for government funding. The defining characteristic that separates a request from a demand is the possibility of "no." While a demand expects compliance, a request hopes for it, recognizing the other person's agency.
In professional and official contexts, you will see this word everywhere: "We are processing your request," or "The client requested a change in the contract." It is a staple of legal settings ("The lawyer filed a formal request for discovery") and customer service ("Your request for a refund is being reviewed").
As a noun, a request refers to the act of asking or the thing being asked for. Whether it is a subtle, hopeful glance or a carefully worded letter, a request is fundamentally about seeking something while maintaining a level of social or professional grace.
Examples
- 1
Extra time
She sent a request for more time to finish the report.
- 2
Meal preferences
We’ve had a lot of requests for vegetarian meals.
- 3
Seating preference
He made a special request to sit by the window.
- 4
By request
At the teacher’s request, the parents came in for a meeting.
- Phraseat someone’s request
because that person asked
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Availability
Copies of the guide are available on request.
- Phraseon request
if someone asks for it
- 6
Refund process
You can request a refund online within 30 days.
- 7
App permissions
The app will request permission to use your camera.
- 8
Formal request
The bank requested that we provide proof of address.
- Patternrequest that + clause
formally ask for something to be done
- 9
Formal instruction
All visitors are requested to turn off their phones.
- Grammarbe requested to + verb
be formally asked or told to do something
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- make a request
- submit a request
- grant a request
- deny a request
Word family
- requested
- requester
Explore
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- requestnounverb
Forms
- requestedpast tenseverbnoun
- requestspluralnounverb
- requesting-ing formverbnoun