What is request? Pronunciation and usage in English

request means . Learn how to pronounce and use request through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of request

requestnoun/verb

/rɪˈkwɛst/
Definition & pronunciation of request

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "request" in English. Here's a breakdown with phonetic spellings and tips:

1. Phonetic Spelling (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

/rɪˈkwest/

Let's break that down:

  • rɪ: This is a very short, quick "r" sound – almost like a schwa (the "uh" sound). It’s a light, barely-there ‘r’.
  • ˈkwest: This is the main part of the word.
    • kwest: Pronounced like "kwest" - with a clear "k" sound followed by "west" (rhymes with zest). The stress is on this syllable.

2. How to Say it Out Loud (Step-by-Step):

  1. Start with a quick, light "r" sound: Like a very brief "uh" sound.
  2. Say “kwest”: Make sure the "est" sounds like "west".
  3. Combine: It flows together like "ri-quest."

3. Tips for Getting it Right:

  • Don't overdo the "r": The initial "r" is the trickiest part. Many people pronounce it too strongly. Treat it as almost a schwa sound.
  • Stress the second syllable: The emphasis is on the "kwest" part. This makes a big difference in how it sounds.
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it said correctly. Here are a few resources:
    • Google: Simply search "how to pronounce request" on Google and listen to the audio examples.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/request/ - This website has native speakers pronouncing the word.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce request" on YouTube and you'll find numerous videos.

Would you like me to:

  • Record an example pronunciation of "request"?
  • Give you some common mistakes people make when pronouncing it, and how to avoid them?

Usage and examples with the word request in English

Let's break down how to use the word "request" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances. Here's a breakdown of how to use it, with examples:

1. As a Verb (Asking for Something)

This is the most common usage. "Request" means to politely ask for something. It implies a degree of formality and consideration.

  • Basic Request: "I request a meeting with the manager." (Formal)
  • More Casual Request: "Could you request a refund for this broken item?" (Polite)
  • Specific Request: "Please request extra napkins at the table." (Direct, but polite)
  • Requesting Information: "I requested information about the project deadline."
  • Requesting Assistance: "I requested your help with this report."

2. As a Noun (The Act of Asking)

"Request" can also be a noun, referring to the act of asking for something.

  • A Formal Request: "I submitted a formal request for funding."
  • A Written Request: “He sent a written request to the school board.”
  • A Request Letter: "She wrote a request letter explaining her situation."
  • A Request Form: "Fill out the request form to apply for a promotion."

3. Key Considerations for Using "Request" Effectively:

  • Politeness is Key: "Request" is almost always more polite than “ask” or “demand.” It shows respect for the person you're addressing.
  • Formality: "Request" leans towards formal language. Use it in professional settings, when dealing with superiors, or when wanting to be particularly respectful. For less formal situations, "ask" or "please ask" might be better.
  • Structure: Generally, use "request" followed by what you are requesting.

4. Synonyms for "Request" (When you want alternatives):

  • Ask: (Less formal) "Could you ask for a favor?"
  • Solicit: (More formal than "ask," often implying a desire for something to benefit the requester) "The charity is soliciting donations."
  • Petition: (Formally asking for something, often officially) "They petitioned the government for new laws."
  • Demand: (Strong, forceful, often implying a right) "He demanded an apology." (This is the opposite of polite!)

Let’s look at some examples in sentences to illustrate the different ways to use it:

  • Verb: "The customer politely requested a discount on the item."
  • Noun: "The manager received several requests to change the meeting time."
  • Combined (Verb + Noun): "She sent a formal request for a salary increase."

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of situation are you thinking of using "request" in? (e.g., a work email, a conversation with a friend, a formal letter?)

Synonyms for the word request

Practice with vocabulary request

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The manager approved our formal _______ for additional resources to complete the project on time.
  2. Students must submit a written _______ to the registrar's office for their official academic transcript.
  3. Could you please _______ me the financial report by the end of the day so I can review it?
  4. The committee will _______ the proposal thoroughly before making a final decision on funding.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. Which of the following can be considered a formal appeal for something? a) command b) demand c) request d) order

  2. In a professional email, what is the most polite way to ask for information? a) I need you to send me the report. b) Please provide the report immediately. c) I would like to request the report, if possible. d) Give me the report.

  3. The IT department received numerous ______ for assistance with the new software. a) queries b) petitions c) applications d) requests

  4. Which word best describes a strong, insistent call for something believed to be due? a) inquiry b) suggestion c) demand d) invitation

  5. If you want someone to do something for you, which verb is most appropriate in a polite, informal context? a) insist b) ask c) command d) order

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Could you please tell me when the meeting is scheduled? (Rewrite using "request" or a related word form.)

  2. The client asked for an immediate update on the project's progress. (Rewrite using "request" or a related word form.)

  3. We expect you to finish this task by Friday. (Rewrite without using "request" or any related word forms.)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. request
  2. request
  3. send / forward / email
  4. review / evaluate / examine

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) request
  2. c) I would like to request the report, if possible.
  3. a) queries, d) requests
  4. c) demand
  5. b) ask

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. I would like to request the meeting schedule. / I would like to request information about the meeting schedule.
  2. The client requested an immediate update on the project's progress. / The client made a request for an immediate update on the project's progress.
  3. This task is required to be completed by Friday. / This task is due by Friday. / We require this task to be finished by Friday.

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