Exploring the Meaning and Usage of 'As Per Your Request'

Introduction

The phrase 'as per your request' is a common term in formal and business correspondence. It is often used in emails, letters, and other written communications when providing a response to a specific request. Despite its prevalence in certain regions, its usage is waning, especially in more concise and direct communication styles. In this article, we will delve into the meaning, context, and historical significance of this phrase.

The Meaning of 'As Per Your Request'

'As per your request' translates to 'according to your request.' It is used to indicate that a particular action or response is being completed or provided because of a specific request made by the recipient. For instance, if someone asks you to deposit money into their bank account, you might respond, 'As per your request, I have deposited ten dollars into your bank account.' This phrase is essentially a formal way of saying, 'I did what you wanted.'

Usage in Formal Correspondence

'As per your request' is commonly used in business correspondence. For example, when a customer places an order, a company might confirm, 'As per your request, we have dispatched the material to your address on December 6, 2020.' This phrase is often employed to add a sense of formality and adherence to the specific request made.

However, in recent years, the phrase has become less popular in English-speaking countries. People tend to use more direct language. Instead of saying 'as per your request,' people might simply say 'as requested.' This shift towards brevity aligns with the modern preference for clear and concise communication. Nevertheless, 'as per your request' is still commonly used in South Asia, where it is seen as a way to enrich the language with an exotic term rooted in the colonial era.

Historical Context

The phrase 'as per your request' has its roots in the colonial era, where it was a formal and impersonal way of expressing compliance with a request. It adds a layer of politeness and formality to the communication. In these times, when business and social interactions were conducted through written correspondence, the use of such phrases was more common. Even though the tradition of using such phrases is gradually fading, it continues to be used in certain regions for its traditional and decorative value.

Alternative Phrases and Their Usage

Alternatively, you can use phrases like 'in response to your request' or 'to answer your request.' For example, if someone asks a question via email, a proper response would be, 'In response to your request, here is my answer.' Similarly, if someone enquires about something, the response would typically begin with 'as per your request' or 'in response to your request,' indicating that the communication is specific to the initial inquiry or request.

Modern Communication Trends

In today's world, where concise communication is valued, phrases like 'as per your request' are often seen as unnecessarily lengthy. People generally prefer more straightforward language. For instance, instead of writing 'as per your request,' a person might simply say, 'Here is my answer to your request.' Similarly, the phrase 'in connection with your letter No. [number] on the subject' is redundant in modern business correspondence, where the subject matter is already evident from the letter's caption.

Conclusion

The phrase 'as per your request' has a rich history and context, but its usage is changing with the times. While it remains a prominent term in certain regions and written communication, the trend towards brevity and clarity is increasing. Understanding the nuances and context of this phrase can help you communicate more effectively and professionally in various settings.