REQUEST Synonyms: 83 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'request' distinct from other similar verbs?

The words ask and solicit are common synonyms of request . While all three words mean "to seek to obtain by making one's wants known," request implies greater formality and courtesy. // requests the pleasure of your company

Q: In what contexts can 'ask' take the place of 'request'?

While in some cases nearly identical to request , ask implies no more than the statement of the desire. // ask a favor of a friend

Q: When is it sensible to use 'solicit' instead of 'request'?

The words solicit and request are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, solicit suggests a calling attention to one's wants or desires by public announcement or advertisement. // a letter soliciting information

request 1 of 2

noun

ri-ˈkwest

Definition of request

as in question

an act or instance of asking for information the medical columnist is unable to answer individual requests for specific information on various disorders

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in demand

the state of being sought after especially for purchase reliable babysitters are much in request, especially on weekends

Synonyms & Similar Words

request

2 of 2

verb

as in to order

to give a request or demand for a notice requesting that I report for jury duty on Monday morning

Synonyms & Similar Words

as in to seek

to make a request for request extra ketchup for my fries

Synonyms & Similar Words

as in to ask

to make a request of a letter from the First Lady graciously requesting the chorus to perform at the White House

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word request distinct from other similar verbs?

The words ask and solicit are common synonyms of request. While all three words mean "to seek to obtain by making one's wants known," request implies greater formality and courtesy.

requests the pleasure of your company

In what contexts can ask take the place of request?

While in some cases nearly identical to request, ask implies no more than the statement of the desire.

ask a favor of a friend

When is it sensible to use solicit instead of request?

The words solicit and request are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, solicit suggests a calling attention to one's wants or desires by public announcement or advertisement.

a letter soliciting information

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of request

Noun

Representatives for Stevens, who is identified in congressional profiles as a Protestant, did not respond to requests for comment. — ABC News, 31 July 2026 Since the property is already zoned for commercial activity, the business owners won’t have to come before the City Council with any rezone requests. — Taylor O'Connor 31, Kansas City Star, 31 July 2026

Verb

To request a waiver, file Form 5329 and explain the circumstances. — Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026 Star defensive tackle Vita Vea, meanwhile, requested a trade from the Bucs after also failing to reach a long-term extension. — Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 1 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for request

Recent Examples of Synonyms for request

Noun

O’Donnell and Hasselbeck again publicly sparred over social media after the former replied to a question about their 2007 clash on the Ricki-Lee, Tim & Joel podcast.

— Joey Nolfi, Entertainment Weekly, 3 Aug. 2026
The real questions are why the ideology took hold after 1970 and whether current conditions will foster it--or exterminate it.

— Steve Denning, Forbes.com, 3 Aug. 2026

Definition of question

Noun

Speaking of star power, celebrities like Jennifer Lawrence and Olivia Culpo got married in the area, making the small town an in-demand wedding destination as well.

— Kelsey Mulvey, Vogue, 4 Aug. 2026
Healthcare leaders often lack formal management training, creating a paradox where excellent practitioners struggle with leadership demands.

— Kevin Kruse, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026

Definition of demand

Verb

The Willow Springs initiative seeks to establish Goodwood as a reliable, annual car event in Southern California, fostering a similar blend of old-world charm and modern passion.

— Michael Teo Van Runkle, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
The development team also sought to address concerns about traffic at the intersection of Linder Road and South Trout Road.

— Noah Daly August 1, Idaho Statesman, 1 Aug. 2026

Definition of seek

Noun

The piece urges critical inquiry into such claims, emphasizing that human oversight, not AI's inherent deviousness, can be a sizable contributor.

— Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 5 Aug. 2026
The inquiry shows that just $17,209 was used to pay healthcare and pharmacy costs, according to a review of statements from the couple’s eight Bank of America accounts between late December 2024 and late June 2026.

— Martha Ross, Mercury News, 5 Aug. 2026

Definition of inquiry

Noun

That jumps from his previous $45 million average and pushes him to the top of the quarterback market.

— Pete Sweeney, Kansas City Star, 31 July 2026
The company headquartered in Toronto is one of a number of banks trying to grow in a market dominated by the region’s Big Three banks — Bank of America, Truist and Wells Fargo.

— Chase Jordan July 31, Charlotte Observer, 31 July 2026

Definition of market

Verb

More than 40 weekly fitness experiences invite guests to move with intention, from sunrise yoga and Pilates sessions to high-energy strength and conditioning classes led by expert instructors.

— Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 31 July 2026
Last week, state officials were invited to a meeting with community leaders to discuss a path forward.

— DJ Simmons, Charlotte Observer, 30 July 2026

Definition of invite

Browse Nearby Words

reputes

request

requested

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Style

“Request.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/request. Accessed 7 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of request

noun

verb

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