What does request mean?
A request is an act of asking for information, assistance, permission, or a specific action. As a noun, it can refer to the asking itself, a formal written application, or a wish communicated to another person. As a verb, it means to ask for something, usually in a courteous, deliberate, or official way. The word has a broadly neutral and often polite connotation, making it especially common in business, institutional, and public contexts. “Make a request,” “at someone’s request,” and “on request” are typical patterns, while “demand” usually conveys greater force or urgency. Request can also describe a formal procedure, as in a customer submitting a request for a refund or an employee requesting leave. Its usefulness lies in its ability to mark an ask as intentional and legitimate without implying that the answer must be favourable.
An act of asking for information, assistance, permission, or a particular action, sometimes made formally in writing or through an official process.
"We received your request and will respond within five working days."
The noun is neutral and often procedural; in formal contexts it can denote a formal application or submission.
To ask for information, assistance, permission, or action, especially in a courteous, deliberate, or official manner.
"The researcher requested access to the archived records."
As a verb, request is generally less forceful than demand and more purposeful or formal than ask.
The plural is commonly used for individual acts of asking, especially formal requests submitted to an organization or authority.
"The department handled several requests for additional funding."
From the Latin root meaning “to seek,” a request began as a way of asking for what you wanted.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
Related word forms
How request is actually used
Request is neutral in tone and commonly suggests a courteous or formal asking. It is often used in official, business, and administrative contexts, while demand is stronger and more insistent. The wording can vary in formality, but the word itself is not regionally restricted.
Easily confused with request
A request asks for something, whereas a require makes something necessary or obligatory.
A request is generally courteous and neutral, while a demand is forceful and implies that compliance is expected.