about the date

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "about the date" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing or inquiring about a specific date or timeframe related to an event or situation. Example: "Can you provide more information about the date of the meeting?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Bratton was right about the date.

The New Yorker

Mr. Neuthaler was nervous about the date.

The New York Times

Dougary asked about the date.

The Guardian

I answered all his questions about the date.

The New Yorker

I would avoid talking about the date with him.

The New York Times

There are conflicting reports about the date of the attack.

The Guardian

North Korea is secretive about the date for the test that it has broadly advertised.

The New York Times

Authentic "Islamophobes" – usually Christian fundamentalist propagandists – do care deeply about the date of the Koran.

Independent

Historical problems have caused uncertainty about the date of the letter's composition.

Encyclopedia Britannica

As it happens, though, many residents were in a fog about the date change.

The New York Times

American intelligence officials expressed doubt about the date of the tape.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "about the date", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to a specific calendar date or a more general timeframe. For example, "There was some confusion "about the date" of the event" is clearer than "There was confusion".

Common error

Be specific. Saying "I'm unsure "about the date"" can be vague. Clarify if you mean the exact day, or a more general period. Adding context such as "I'm unsure "about the date" of the deadline" improves clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "about the date" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase. It modifies nouns or verbs by providing information relating to a particular date or timeframe. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

22%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "about the date" is a versatile and grammatically sound prepositional phrase commonly used to specify or inquire about a particular date or timeframe. As validated by Ludwig AI, it functions effectively across diverse contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, aiming for clarity by adding context is crucial to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "regarding the date" or "concerning the date" can be employed for more formal tones. Being mindful of the context ensures effective communication when using "about the date".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

regarding the date

Replaces "about" with "regarding", maintaining a formal tone.

concerning the date

Substitutes "about" with "concerning", providing another formal alternative.

related to the date

Simplifies the phrase while retaining the core meaning.

pertaining to the date

Uses "pertaining to" instead of "about", increasing formality.

in reference to the date

Offers a more elaborate and formal way to express the same concept.

as to the date

A succinct and slightly old-fashioned substitute for "about the date".

with respect to the date

Presents a formal and slightly more nuanced alternative.

in connection with the date

Provides a slightly more detailed and formal alternative.

concerning when it happened

Rephrases to focus on the time of occurrence rather than the specific date.

regarding when it occurred

Alternative way of saying it in a more formal context.

FAQs

How can I use "about the date" in a sentence?

You can use "about the date" to inquire or provide information regarding a specific date. For example, "Are there any conflicting reports "about the date" of the incident?"

What's a more formal alternative to "about the date"?

For more formal situations, consider using phrases such as "regarding the date", "concerning the date", or "pertaining to the date".

How can I be more specific when talking "about the date"?

To avoid ambiguity, specify what aspect of the date you're referring to. For example, instead of "I'm confused "about the date"", say "I'm confused "about the date of the deadline"".

Is it correct to say "about the dates" instead of "about the date"?

Yes, "about the dates" is correct if you are referring to multiple dates. However, "about the date" is used when referring to a single, specific date. Context is key in determining which is appropriate.