Request Meaning

UK /rɪˈkwɛst/
US /rɪˈkwɛst/
Word Definition
request meaning

Request Definition & Usage

noun

A formal or polite demand for something desired, typically a favor, action, or item.

Examples

  • "She made a request for an extension on the deadline."
  • "The employees submitted a request for more flexible work hours."
  • "We received a request for information from the public."
  • "His request for additional funding was rejected by the board."
  • "The customer made a request to speak to the manager."
verb

To ask for something, typically in a formal or polite manner.

Examples

  • "She requested a refund for the defective product."
  • "I would like to request your assistance with this task."
  • "He requested a day off due to personal reasons."
  • "They requested that the meeting be rescheduled for next week."
  • "Can I request a table for two by the window?"
noun

The act or process of asking for something.

Examples

  • "The request was promptly handled by the customer service team."
  • "His request for leave was denied due to company policy."
  • "After making the request, she waited anxiously for a response."
  • "The official request for the project extension was sent yesterday."
  • "Once the request had been approved, work on the project resumed."

Cultural Context

The word 'request' has roots in both Latin and Old French, used in formal contexts to express a polite demand or inquiry. In many cultures, the manner in which requests are made is a reflection of politeness and respect, especially in professional or social settings. The word is frequently used in bureaucratic, legal, and corporate environments, as well as in everyday social situations.

The Request That Changed Everything

Story

The Request That Changed Everything

Lena sat at her desk, a letter in front of her that she had been drafting for hours. It was her request for a promotion, something she had been hesitating to make for months. She had watched her colleagues rise through the ranks while she remained in the same position. The request was straightforward: a polite but clear ask for the opportunity to move into a higher role with more responsibilities. As she reviewed the words on the paper, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of vulnerability. A request was not just a mere asking; it was an invitation for judgment. If the answer was no, it could set back her career plans significantly. She had heard of others who made similar requests, some with success, and others whose requests were quietly ignored. “Lena, are you still working on that request?” asked her colleague Mark, peeking over the cubicle. He knew she had been preparing it for weeks, ever since the last promotion cycle. “Yes,” she replied with a small smile, trying to mask her nervousness. “Just making sure everything’s perfect. I’m going to submit it today.” Mark raised an eyebrow. “You know, I made a similar request last year. The timing is everything.” Lena nodded, knowing he was right. Timing was everything when making a request, especially one like this. She had to make it at the right moment, when her boss was receptive and when she had proven her worth. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, she hit ‘send’ on her email. It was done. She had officially made the request. Days passed, and Lena found herself anxiously checking her inbox every few minutes. The waiting game was never easy. Finally, she received the reply: a meeting request for that afternoon. Lena’s heart raced. The meeting was brief, but impactful. Her boss looked over her work and praised her dedication to the company. Then, with a thoughtful pause, she made an offer: a promotion with new responsibilities, but also a new challenge that Lena hadn’t anticipated. It was a request that had changed everything for Lena—her career, her self-perception, and the way she approached opportunities in the future.

The Request That Changed Everything