- Do you ever find yourself wondering whether to “make a request” or “do a request”?
- Are you unsure how to politely ask for something officially in English without sounding awkward?
- Struggling to use “request” naturally, whether you’re asking for information or responding to an inquiry?
Understanding collocations—words that naturally go together—is key to achieving fluency and sounding like a native speaker. For a word like “request,” which is frequently used in both formal and everyday contexts, mastering its collocations will significantly boost your confidence and reduce language anxiety. Let’s explore how to use “request” accurately and naturally, whether it’s functioning as a verb or a noun.
Common Collocations with REQUEST as a Verb
When “request” is used as a verb, it means “to politely or formally ask for something.” It directly takes an object, indicating what is being asked for, or it can be modified by adverbs describing how the request is made.
Adverbs Modifying the Verb “Request”
These adverbs describe the manner in which someone asks for something.
- formally request: To ask for something in an official or structured way.
Example: The company formally requested a meeting with the regulatory board.
- politely request: To ask for something in a courteous and respectful manner.
Example: I politely requested an update on my application status.
- urgently request: To ask for something that is needed immediately.
Example: The hospital urgently requested more medical supplies.
- humbly request: To ask for something in a modest or submissive way, often showing deference.
Example: The student humbly requested an extension for his assignment.
Objects You Can “Request”
These are common nouns or noun phrases that directly follow “request” as the object of the verb.
- request information: To ask for details or data.
Example: We need to request information about the project timeline.
- request a refund: To ask for your money back for a product or service.
Example: She decided to request a refund for the faulty product.
- request assistance: To ask for help.
Example: If you encounter any issues, please request assistance from the support team.
- request a meeting: To ask to hold a discussion with someone.
Example: The manager will request a meeting to discuss the new strategy.
- request a leave of absence: To ask for official permission to be away from work or duties for a period.
Example: He plans to request a leave of absence to care for his family.
- request an extension: To ask for more time to complete something.
Example: I had to request an extension on my project deadline.
Essential Collocations using REQUEST as a Noun
When “request” is used as a noun, it refers to “an act of asking for something.” In this form, it often combines with other verbs to describe actions taken concerning the request, or with adjectives to describe its nature.
Verbs Used with a “Request” (Making or Initiating)
These verbs describe the action of creating or sending a request.
- make a request: The most common way to say you are asking for something.
Example: Customers can make a request for a custom design.
- submit a request: To formally send a request, often in writing or through an official channel.
Example: Please submit a request through the online portal.
- lodge a request: To formally present a request, often used in official or legal contexts (UK English often prefers ‘lodge’ for official complaints/appeals).
Example: The citizen decided to lodge a request for public information.
- file a request: Similar to ‘lodge a request,’ often used in administrative or legal contexts.
Example: Lawyers will file a request for discovery documents.
Verbs Used with a “Request” (Responding To or Acting On)
These verbs describe how a request is received, processed, or decided upon.
- grant a request: To agree to and allow a request.
Example: The committee decided to grant the request for additional funding.
- approve a request: To officially agree to or allow a request.
Example: The manager will need to approve your request for overtime.
- deny a request: To refuse to allow or agree to a request.
Example: Unfortunately, we had to deny the request due to policy restrictions.
- reject a request: Similar to ‘deny,’ often implying a more definitive refusal.
Example: The board voted to reject the request for a new building.
- refuse a request: To decline to do what has been asked.
Example: It’s hard to refuse a request from a close friend.
- fulfill a request: To complete or satisfy what was asked for.
Example: Our team works hard to fulfill customer requests promptly.
- handle a request: To deal with or manage a request.
Example: The customer service department handles all requests for support.
- process a request: To deal with a request according to a set procedure.
Example: It takes 3-5 business days to process a request for a new passport.
- receive a request: To get or be sent a request.
Example: We received a request for more information this morning.
Adjectives Describing a “Request”
These adjectives provide more detail about the nature or type of the request.
- a formal request: An official or structured request.
Example: Please submit a formal request in writing.
- a polite request: A request made courteously.
Example: He made a polite request for quiet during the presentation.
- an urgent request: A request that needs immediate attention.
Example: We received an urgent request for a medical evacuation.
- a special request: A unique or unusual request.
Example: The chef was happy to accommodate a special request for a vegetarian meal.
- a reasonable request: A request that is considered fair and acceptable.
Example: Asking for an extra day to finish the report seems like a reasonable request.
- a written request: A request documented on paper or digitally.
Example: You’ll need to submit a written request for vacation time.
- a verbal request: A request made orally, not in writing.
Example: A follow-up email is important even after a verbal request.
Prepositional Phrases with “Request”
These phrases show the relationship of the request to other elements.
- at someone’s request: Done because someone asked for it.
Example: The meeting was scheduled at her request.
- by request: Done because it was asked for. Often used when an item or service is not always available but can be provided if asked.
Example: Special dietary meals are available by request.
The Master Summary Table: Essential Request Collocations
| Collocation | Part of Speech | Quick Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| formally request | Verb + Adverb | To ask officially |
| request information | Verb + Noun | To ask for details |
| make a request | Verb + Noun | To initiate an ask |
| submit a request | Verb + Noun | To formally send an ask |
| grant a request | Verb + Noun | To approve an ask |
| deny a request | Verb + Noun | To refuse an ask |
| fulfill a request | Verb + Noun | To complete an ask |
| handle a request | Verb + Noun | To deal with an ask |
| an urgent request | Adjective + Noun | An immediate ask |
| at someone’s request | Prepositional Phrase | Because someone asked |
Common Mistakes: Natural vs Unnatural
English learners often make direct translations from their native languages, leading to phrases that are grammatically correct but sound unnatural to native speakers. Avoid these common pitfalls to sound more fluent!
| Do Not Say | Say This |
|---|---|
| Do a request | Make a request, submit a request |
| Strong request | Urgent request, formal request, special request |
| Answer a request | Respond to a request, grant a request, deny a request, fulfill a request |
| I request for help. | I request assistance. / I make a request for help. |
| Accept a request | Grant a request, approve a request |
Putting Collocations into Context
Subject: Follow-up on Project Atlas – Budget Request
Dear Team,
Following our discussion yesterday, I wanted to formally request a review of the Project Atlas budget. We need to make a request for additional funds to cover unforeseen expenses. I will submit a request to the finance department by end of day today, outlining the specific areas where we urgently request more allocation.
I hope the committee will grant our request promptly so we can avoid any delays. If you receive a request for further information from them, please be prepared to provide it. This is a reasonable request given the scope expansion. We expect the finance team to handle our request within 48 hours.
Best regards,
Sarah Chen
Frequently Asked Questions about Request Collocations
What’s the difference between “ask for” and “request”?
“Ask for” is generally more informal and can be used in almost any situation (e.g., “I asked for a glass of water”). “Request” is more formal or official and often implies a more deliberate or structured asking, particularly in business, academic, or formal social contexts. You wouldn’t typically “request a glass of water” from a friend, but you might “request a meeting” with your boss.
Can “request” as a verb be followed by an infinitive (e.g., “request to do something”)?
While less common than “request that someone do something” or “request a noun,” “request to do something” is sometimes used, especially in formal contexts, to mean ‘ask for permission to do something.’ For example, “The student requested to postpone the exam.” However, it’s often more natural to say “The student requested an extension for the exam” or “The student requested permission to postpone the exam.”
What prepositions are commonly used with “request” as a noun?
The most common preposition is “for,” as in “a request for information” or “a request for a refund.” This preposition indicates what is being requested. Other important phrases include “at someone’s request” (meaning because someone asked) and “by request” (meaning if someone asks).
Is “request for” always correct when “request” is a noun?
Yes, when “request” is a noun, you often specify what is being requested using “for.” For example, “a request for a quote” or “a request for proposal.” It is a very common and natural construction. Be careful not to use “for” when “request” is a verb, e.g., “I request assistance” (not “I request for assistance”).
How do I make a polite request in English?
To make a polite request, especially as a verb, you can use adverbs like “politely request” or “humbly request.” When “request” is a noun, you might say “I have a polite request” or “Would you mind if I made a request?” Additionally, using modals like “Could you…?” or “Would you be able to…?” followed by your request often softens it, even if you don’t explicitly use the word “request.”
What does “on request” or “upon request” mean?
Both “on request” and “upon request” mean “if someone asks for it” or “when a request is made.” They are interchangeable and refer to something that is provided or done only after a specific request is submitted. For example, “Details are available on request” means you can get the details if you ask for them.
The explanation of adverbs modifying the verb 'request' is so clear. It really helps to know which adverbs pair naturally. Any other common ones besides 'formally' and 'politely'?
Great observation, Mia! Besides 'formally' and 'politely,' you'll often hear adverbs like 'kindly request,' 'urgently request,' 'respectfully request,' or 'humbly request.' Each adds a specific shade of meaning to your asking. Experiment with them to see how they fit different situations!
I always heard 'make a request' but my friend said 'have a request'. Is 'have a request' also correct or more informal?
That's an interesting one, Jin! 'Have a request' is also correct, but it's used in a slightly different way. It means you *possess* a request you want to make, often as an introduction: 'I have a request to make regarding the project.' It sets up the actual 'making' of the request. Both are natural, just used in different grammatical structures.
Can you use 'request' to ask a person, like 'I requested him to do it'? Or is it only for things or information?
Yes, Fatima, you absolutely can! Your example 'I requested him to do it' is perfectly correct. You can 'request someone to do something.' This pattern is common, especially in formal contexts, for example, 'The manager requested the team to submit their reports by Friday.' Great question!
This is brilliant! My English sounds much more natural when I focus on collocations like these. Thanks, Translateen, for helping me sound less like a textbook and more like a real person!
That's fantastic to hear, Carlos! Your comment truly highlights why we do what we do. Mastering collocations is a huge step towards sounding more natural and fluent. Keep up the great work – your dedication is paying off!
I'm looking forward to the noun section! I always wonder when to use 'a request' vs just 'request' without the article.
Is there any difference between 'ask for' and 'request' in terms of politeness or formality? They seem similar.
That's a key distinction, Kenji! While both mean to seek something, 'request' is generally more formal and polite than 'ask for.' 'Ask for' can be used in almost any situation, from very casual to somewhat formal. 'Request' elevates the tone and is often preferred in official, professional, or written contexts. Think of 'request' as a more elevated version of 'ask for.'
What about other adverbs? Could I say 'urgently request' or 'sincerely request'? It sounds natural to me, but I want to be sure.
You have a great ear for collocations, Sophie! Both 'urgently request' and 'sincerely request' are perfectly natural and commonly used. 'Urgently request' emphasizes the immediate need, and 'sincerely request' adds a tone of genuine earnestness. Excellent choices!
This really clarifies the verb usage. I often hear 'make a request' but rarely 'do a request'. Is 'do a request' completely wrong or just very uncommon?
Hello Aisha! You're spot on. 'Do a request' is actually grammatically incorrect and would sound very unnatural to a native speaker. The correct collocation is always 'make a request.' It's a common point of confusion, so great job in identifying it!
So, if 'request' is a verb, it takes a direct object. Is it ever followed by 'to' or 'for' in a different construction, perhaps not directly linked to the thing being asked for?
Excellent follow-up question, Deepak! While 'request' as a verb usually takes a direct object (e.g., 'request information'), you can use 'request *that* someone do something' or 'request *someone to do something*'. For example, 'We requested *that* he attend the meeting' or 'We requested *him to attend* the meeting.' The preposition 'for' is generally not used directly after the verb 'request' itself.
This is gold! I'm teaching English to beginners, and 'request' is one of those words that comes up a lot in business English. This will be a fantastic resource for my lessons.
That's fantastic, Maria! We're thrilled to know our content is valuable for your teaching. Mastering 'request' in business contexts is crucial, and understanding its collocations will certainly give your students a significant advantage. Let us know if there are other topics you'd like us to cover!