The phrase “upon request” means that something will be provided or done when someone asks for it, usually in a formal way. It is often used in professional contexts. For example, in a job advertisement, an employer might state that additional details about the role are available upon request. This implies that further information will be provided to those who show interest and ask for it.
In short:
- "Upon request" indicates that something is not automatically provided but is available if asked for.
The phrase "upon request" means that something is not automatically provided but can be made available if someone asks. It is often seen in contexts where providing information or services to everyone by default is not practical or necessary.
To understand it fully, let's break down the different ways this idiom can be used:
The term "request" itself originates from the Old French word "requeste," which evolved from the Vulgar Latin "*requaesita." This Latin term is a combination of the prefix "re-" indicating repetition or intensity, and "quaesita," the past participle of "quaerere," meaning "to seek" or "to ask." Meanwhile, the preposition "upon" has been used since the Middle Ages, often interchangeable with "on." Therefore, the phrase “upon request” can be understood as “upon asking” or “when asked.”
To get a better grasp of how "upon request" is used in everyday language, here are ten examples that illustrate its versatility:
The phrase "upon request" is quite common in pop culture.
Here are a few examples:
There are several ways to express the idea conveyed by "upon request" without using the exact phrase.
Here are some alternatives that carry a similar meaning:
This phrase means that something is available and can be provided if someone asks for it.
The exact origin is unclear, but it has been a part of English language for a long time, often used in formal and service contexts.
Yes, it is commonly used in formal documents to indicate that further information or documents can be provided if requested.
Not really, both phrases are used interchangeably and mean that something is available if someone asks for it.
You can use it to indicate that something can be made available, for example: "The restaurant's nutritional information is available upon request."
Yes, it is still in common use, especially in customer service, legal, and business communications.
Absolutely, it's often used in emails and online forms where specific information or files can be sent if requested.
In legal contexts, it may imply a commitment to provide something when asked, so it should be used with the understanding that you are obliged to fulfill the request.
Yes, it's often used in academic settings, for example, when certain research materials are available to students or scholars upon request.
Not necessarily, but it depends on the context. Sometimes services or information provided upon request may come with an additional cost.
The phrase "upon request" is a polite and concise way to offer additional services, information, or items without making them openly available to everyone.
Here's a quick recap of what we've covered:
