Requestlike

Requestlike is an adjective describing utterances, messages, or actions that resemble requests in form, function, or intent, but do not carry the same commitment or obligation. The term is used in linguistics, human-computer interaction, and information theory to classify inputs that prompt action or information in ways similar to a request yet may be hedged, conditional, or negotiable.

In linguistics, requestlike utterances often use indirect speech acts, modal verbs, or politeness strategies to minimize imposition. They can be formed as questions, embedded clauses, or nominal phrases that imply a request rather than command it. Examples include "Could you help me with this?" and "I was wondering if you could send the report."

In technology, requestlike messages appear in user interfaces and network protocols as hedged prompts that resemble requests but may require confirmation, multiple steps, or additional context before action is taken. For instance, "Would you like to proceed?" in a dialog box or a service that acknowledges but does not guarantee completion.

Etymology and scope: The term is a recent neologism used in contemporary discussions to capture a shared property across domains where intention to solicit action is implied rather than asserted. It is related to, but distinct from, "request" and "command" and is sometimes used to analyze interaction design and discourse.

See also: request, command, imperative, interrogative, indirect speech act, hedging, politeness strategy, performative utterance, user interface design.