Request or Request For? Verb, Noun and Email Examples
Quick Answer
Verb: request something (NO "for")
Noun: a request for something (WITH "for")
Explanation
REQUEST (verb)
Takes a direct object - no preposition needed
request + something
"We request your assistance."
"I request a meeting."
REQUEST (noun)
Uses "for" to show what is requested
a request + for + something
"This is a request for help."
"A request for information."
Similar verbs without prepositions: request, discuss, mention, enter, approach, contact, reach, marry
Examples
Verb Usage:
Noun Usage:
Common Mistakes
Incorrect: I would like to request for a catalog.
Correct: I would like to request a catalog.
Incorrect: We request for your understanding.
Correct: We request your understanding.
Use request naturally in an email
First decide whether request names an action or a thing. You can request a document, send a request for a document, or ask for a document. These sentences have similar meanings but different grammar. In ordinary correspondence, "Could you send me the document?" is often a more direct and natural request.
| Pattern | Example | Why it works |
|---|---|---|
| Verb + object | I would like to request a replacement. | Do not insert for between request and its direct object. |
| Noun + for | I sent a request for a replacement. | A request is a noun, and for identifies the thing requested. |
| Ask + for | May I ask for a replacement? | Ask uses for in this pattern; request does not. |
| Request permission | She requested permission to leave early. | Permission is the direct object; to leave explains its purpose. |
| For with a different role | We requested a table for four. | For four describes the table. It does not make request for the verb pattern. |
Five practice questions with explanations
Try each sentence before opening its answer. Explain the rule aloud, then write a similar sentence of your own.
I would like to ___ a copy. (request / request for)
Show answer and explanation
request
The verb request takes the direct object a copy.
Please review my request ___ a refund. (for / no preposition)
Show answer and explanation
for
My request is a noun phrase.
Could I ask ___ a receipt? (for / no preposition)
Show answer and explanation
for
Ask for and request are different verb patterns.
Correct this sentence: We requested for permission.
Show answer and explanation
We requested permission.
Remove for between the verb and its object.
Is this correct? We requested a room for two nights.
Show answer and explanation
Yes.
A room is the direct object. For two nights gives the duration of the booking.
Reference: Cambridge Dictionary: request as a verb and noun. Examples and exercises are written for this lesson.