request marriage permission
/rɪˈkwɛst ˈmærɪdʒ pəˈmɪʃən/
Meaning
This formal phrase refers to the traditional act of asking a partner's parents (historically the father) for their formal approval or blessing before proposing marriage. It is often used in cultural, historical, or highly formal contexts.
Examples
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Before proposing, he decided to request marriage permission from her father.
Before proposing, he decided to request marriage permission from her father.
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In some cultures, it is still customary to request marriage permission from the family.
In some cultures, it is still customary to request marriage permission from the family.
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He felt incredibly nervous about having to request marriage permission.
He felt incredibly nervous about having to request marriage permission.
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They discussed whether it was necessary to request marriage permission in this day and age.
They discussed whether it was necessary to request marriage permission in this day and age.
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The historical drama depicted a scene where the young man had to request marriage permission from the duke.
The historical drama depicted a scene where the young man had to request marriage permission from the duke.
Common Mistakes
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✗ He went to request marriage permission to her parents.
✓ He went to request marriage permission from her parents.
You request permission *from* someone, not *to* someone.
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✗ He asked for a marriage permission.
✓ He requested marriage permission.
'Permission' is an uncountable noun in this context, so it should not be preceded by the indefinite article 'a'.
Related Expressions
Practice
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He chose to follow tradition and ___ from her parents.
💡 Ask for their blessing to marry.
Show answer
request marriage permission
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Is it still common in your country to ___ before proposing?
💡 Ask the family's approval formally.
Show answer
request marriage permission