a due date

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a due date" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the specific date by which something is expected to be completed or submitted, such as an assignment or a payment. Example: "The project has a due date of March 15th, so please ensure all work is submitted by then."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But such popularity has a due date.

The New York Times

But her written order did not specify a due date for the back payments or for the new rent.

The New York Times

A few weeks before a due date, the CHW receives a reminder, then encourages their patient to contact them the moment labour pains start.

The Guardian

In these cases it may take up to two weeks for books to become available again; a due date is cited in the online catalog.

The New York Times

You can also add a due date for each task.

TechCrunch

Unfortunately, a due date on this one is missing from the release.

TechCrunch

With each job, a due date is specified for its completion.

International Journal of Production Economics

Each job is characterized by its processing times in both stages and a due date.

Computers & Operations Research

In this paper we study a due date setting problem in a flowshop layout.

Computers & Operations Research

A due date assignment cost is included into the objective function.

Computers & Operations Research

From there, you simply add a task and a due date by tapping on the proper day on the calendar.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a due date", always specify a clear and precise date to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "the due date is soon", specify "the due date is July 29, 2025".

Common error

Avoid using "a due date" interchangeably with a start date. The due date indicates the final deadline for completion, while the start date indicates when work should begin. Use both terms precisely to avoid misunderstandings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a due date" functions as a noun phrase that specifies a deadline or a target date for completing a task, submitting work, or making a payment. As Ludwig AI shows, it clearly defines a point in time by which something is expected.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a due date" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to specify the final day for completing a task or submitting work. Ludwig AI analysis shows that it's used across various contexts, including news, science, and wikis, making it a versatile phrase for both formal and informal communication. To ensure clarity, always state the due date explicitly and avoid ambiguity by including a specific time. While "a deadline", "a completion date", and "a submission date" can be used as alternatives, the best choice depends on the specific context and the aspect you wish to emphasize.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a deadline

Replaces "date" with "deadline", emphasizing the finality.

a target date

Substitutes "due" with "target", suggesting a goal to be achieved.

a completion date

Replaces "due" with "completion", highlighting the action of finishing.

a submission date

Emphasizes the act of submitting something by a certain date.

a scheduled date

Highlights the planned or arranged nature of the date.

a stipulated date

Implies that the date is a requirement specified in an agreement.

a fixed date

Emphasizes the unchangeable nature of the date.

a final date

Stresses that there will be no further extensions beyond this date.

a cutoff date

Focuses on the point at which something will no longer be accepted.

a payment deadline

Specifies that the deadline is specifically for payments.

FAQs

How is "a due date" typically used in a sentence?

Typically, "a due date" specifies when something must be completed or submitted. For instance, "The assignment has "a deadline" of next Friday" or "Please ensure payment is made by "a stipulated date"".

What are some alternatives to "a due date"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a deadline", "a completion date", or "a submission date". The best choice depends on what aspect you want to emphasize.

Is it necessary to always specify a time with "a due date"?

While not always necessary, including a specific time with "a due date" can prevent confusion, especially when dealing with tasks or assignments spanning multiple days. For example, "The report is due by 5:00 PM on Friday" provides greater clarity than simply saying "The report is due Friday".

What should I do if I can't meet "a due date"?

If you anticipate being unable to meet "a due date", communicate with the relevant party as early as possible. Requesting "a due date extension" and providing a valid reason can often lead to a more favorable outcome than simply missing the deadline.