A Request Is an Ask, Not a Demand
A request asks for something politely. A demand insists, and the difference is the whole point of having two words.
A request is an act of asking for something. Its usefulness lies in what it is not: a demand insists and expects compliance, while a request leaves the other side free to refuse. Public notices and official letters lean on the word heavily for exactly that reason.
- An act of asking. *A written request.*
- To ask for. *Request assistance.*
- On request — when asked for. *Available on request.*
Word forms
| Form | Word | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Noun | request | A polite request. |
| Plural | requests | Listener requests. |
| Verb | request | Request a copy. |
| Past | requested | As requested. |
| Related | require | Require proof. |
How it is used in a sentence
- Copies are available on request.Formal notice.
- Passengers are requested to remain seated.Politer than told.
- She made a formal request for the records.Freedom of information.
Asking words, from soft to hard
- Ask — the plain word
- Request — polite and often formal
- Apply — request through a set procedure
- Require — state as necessary
- Demand — insist, with force behind it
From Old French *requeste*, from Latin *requaerere*, to seek again, from *re-* and *quaerere*, to seek — the same root as *question*, *inquire* and *conquest*.
Request or require?
Requesting asks; requiring states a necessity. A form may request your telephone number and require your name.
Is *request for* correct?
As a noun, yes: a request for information. As a verb, drop the for: request information.