And we should not forget the different cultures too.Some uses can be polite in one country and very unpolite in another. And 'request' is not unpolite for me. As far as I know.I don't know how 'hard' this word sounds.But I am neither an American nor an Englishman.I am from Belgium.But You are so right concerning the language.Sometimes I even don't understand what is meant.

And sometimes the way some reactions (also by me ! ) are given is quite 'rough'.

Sincere greetz

Osc