Professional communication often hinges on small phrases. One such phrase, “As per Your Request,” appears in emails, letters, contracts, and even customer service replies.
At first glance, it seems simple, but using it correctly can make the difference between sounding polished and sounding stiff.
This guide explores its meaning, nuances, proper use, alternatives, and best practices so you can communicate confidently and professionally.
What Does “As per Your Request” Really Mean?
“As per Your Request” essentially signals that an action or response is being taken because someone asked for it. It’s a formal acknowledgment, often implying compliance with instructions or adherence to a request.
- Literal meaning: “In accordance with what you requested.”
- Implied meaning: Recognition that the sender is responding to a request.
Although clear, the phrase carries a formal tone that may feel outdated in casual modern communication. It’s important to understand the nuance: it doesn’t just report an action—it subtly communicates respect, professionalism, and adherence to protocol.
Example:
As per your request, I’ve attached the finalized project report for your review.
This sentence communicates that the action was taken specifically because of the recipient’s prior request, maintaining professionalism while keeping the tone neutral.
Why It Feels Formal and Sometimes Stiff
The phrase originates from legal and corporate English, where precision and compliance are key. It’s meant to be polite, but it can sometimes sound robotic or distant, especially in casual contexts.
- Formal tone: Signals professionalism and attention to detail.
- Potential drawback: In modern emails, overusing it can make the writer seem impersonal.
Overly formal example:
As per your request, please find the attached document for your kind perusal.
A more approachable version could be:
Here’s the document you requested.
Using the right tone is about reading your audience and balancing professionalism with approachability.
When and Where to Use “As per Your Request”
Appropriate Contexts
“As per Your Request” works best in situations that require formality or clarity:
- Professional emails confirming an action.
- Formal letters or business correspondence.
- Legal or contractual communications.
- Customer service responses confirming requests.
Example in email:
As per your request, the team has completed the audit report and uploaded it to the shared folder.
Situations Where It Feels Outdated or Awkward
- Internal team chats or casual emails.
- Slack, Teams, or WhatsApp messages.
- Modern marketing or social media responses.
Example in internal email (better alternative):
I’ve completed the audit report as you asked.
The phrase here could feel stiff and unnecessarily formal.
“As per Your Request” in Business Emails and Letters
Email Examples
Formal:
As per your request, I’ve scheduled the meeting for Thursday at 3 PM.
Polished but modern:
Following your request, I’ve scheduled the Thursday meeting at 3 PM.
Letter Examples
Formal letter:
Dear Mr. Smith,
As per your request, we are providing the enclosed documentation for your records.
Modern business letter:
Dear Mr. Smith,
Here’s the documentation you requested. Please review and let us know if you need further details.
Risks of Overuse
- May appear robotic or distant.
- Could make internal communication feel overly formal.
- Overuse can reduce readability and engagement in emails.
Formality and Tone: Is It Always Appropriate?
Tone Implications
Using “As per Your Request” signals professionalism, but misjudged tone can backfire. Overly formal phrasing may suggest:
- Distance between sender and recipient.
- Lack of adaptability in modern communication.
- Focus on protocol over collaboration.
Regional and Cultural Differences
- US English: Slightly less formal alternatives are often preferred.
- UK English: More formal phrasing is still widely accepted in business.
- India and other regions: Heavy use in corporate or legal contexts; common in official letters.
Example Tone Shift
| Tone | Example | Audience |
|---|---|---|
| Formal | As per your request, the report has been submitted. | External client, legal department |
| Neutral | I’ve submitted the report as requested. | External or internal professional email |
| Casual | Here’s the report you asked for. | Internal team or casual communication |
“As per Your Request” vs. “Per Your Request”
The two phrases are similar but differ slightly in tone:
- As per your request: Adds extra formality. Common in letters and formal emails.
- Per your request: Slightly less formal; more concise and widely used in emails.
Examples:
- Formal: As per your request, please find attached the signed agreement.
- Neutral: Per your request, I’ve attached the signed agreement.
Choosing the right one depends on audience, context, and tone preference.
Modern and Professional Alternatives
Direct and Polite Alternatives
- As you requested…
- Following your request…
- Per your instructions…
Highly Formal Alternatives
- In accordance with your request…
- Pursuant to your request…
Polished but Less Stiff Alternatives
- Here’s what you asked for…
- I’ve prepared this as requested…
Comparison Table
| Phrase | Tone | Best Use Case | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| As per your request | Formal | Business letters, legal | May feel stiff |
| Per your request | Formal | Emails, contracts | Slightly less formal |
| As you requested | Neutral | Most business emails | Modern, approachable |
| Here’s what you asked for | Casual | Internal emails | Friendly and clear |
Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
- Overuse in casual communication: Makes messages seem distant.
- Confusing compliance with acknowledgment: “As per your request” isn’t always necessary for simple replies.
- Mixing with incorrect phrasing: Avoid “In accordance to your request,” which is grammatically wrong.
Tip: Always match phrasing to the audience and context.
Real-World Examples in Context
Business Email:
As per your request, the financial summary for Q3 is attached.
Legal Contract:
Pursuant to your request, all deliverables will be submitted in compliance with the agreed terms.
Customer Service Reply:
As per your request, we have updated your account information.
Casual Example (Not Recommended):
As per your request, I’ve done the thing. (Too stiff for Slack or Teams)
Alternatives You Should Avoid
- Overly casual: “Like you asked,” “As you said.”
- Incorrect/legal jargon: “In accordance to your request” (should be “in accordance with”).
Stick to professional yet readable phrasing that maintains clarity and approachability.
Key Takeaways and Best Practices
- Match tone to context—formal for contracts, neutral for emails, casual for internal chat.
- Avoid overuse; it can sound robotic.
- Prefer concise alternatives whenever appropriate to maintain readability.
- Be aware of regional differences in formal communication.
- Always double-check that the phrase is necessary; simpler language often works better.
Quick Decision Guide
| Context | Recommended Usage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Internal email | Use simple alternative | Avoid over-formality |
| External email | “As you requested…” | Polished and approachable |
| Legal / contract | “Pursuant to your request” | Safe and formal |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between “As per your request” and “As you requested”?
Answer: “As per your request” is more formal, while “As you requested” is neutral and modern.
Can I use “As per your request” in casual emails?
Answer: It’s better to use simpler alternatives in casual or internal communication.
Is “Per your request” less formal than “As per your request”?
Answer: Yes, “Per your request” is slightly more concise and modern.
What are polite alternatives for “As per your request”?
Answer: “As you requested,” “Following your request,” or “I’ve prepared this as requested.”
Should I avoid using “As per your request” too often?
Answer: Yes, overuse can make emails sound stiff or robotic.
Conclusion
“As per Your Request” remains a useful phrase for formal and professional communication. Understanding when, where, and how to use it ensures your emails, letters, and documents convey professionalism without sounding stiff.
By using modern alternatives and matching tone to context, you can maintain clarity, approachability, and efficiency in communication.
