an update about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an update about" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to inform someone about new information or developments regarding a specific topic or situation. Example: "I wanted to provide you with an update about the project's progress and any changes to the timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Ninety minutes later came an update, "about to vote in #UNSC".

The New York Times

Commissioner Gordon gives an update about various crimes going on around Gotham City.

The New York Times

It's difficult for me to tell you an update about that.

The Guardian - Sport

On Thursday night, Invisible Children posted an update about plans to extend its reach around the world.

The New York Times

9.12pm: arkadyrose has just posted an update about her daughter Kathy who was earlier caught up in the London kettle.

The Guardian

Next week, we will follow up with an update about what the Lundbergs have been doing and how it has worked out.

The New York Times

Around 4 30 p.m., a protester announced to some cheers that there had been an update about the release of the police videos.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

White House press secretary Sean Spicer told reporters Thursday only that the Trump administration would have an update Friday about the project. .

Huffington Post

A status update about a study session or frat party may have reached a more relevant audience in 2006.

TechCrunch

A status update about a fantasy game as if it were their real life.

Huffington Post

Four months later, a woman posting a status update about her abortion is not just enough to stop the presses.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an update about", ensure that the information you are providing is new or has changed since the last communication. Be specific about the topic you are updating on.

Common error

Avoid using "an update about" when a simpler preposition like "on" or "regarding" would be more concise and effective. For example, instead of "an update about the project", consider "an update on the project" or "information regarding the project".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an update about" functions as a prepositional phrase, introducing the topic or subject that new information is being provided about. As indicated by Ludwig, it is generally considered grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

21%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an update about" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase. It is most commonly found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, indicating its versatility across various writing styles. Ludwig confirms that it is correct and usable in written English. To improve writing, consider using simpler alternatives such as "an update on" where appropriate, and always ensure that the information being provided is indeed new or updated. Be mindful of conciseness and choose the most effective option for the tone and context of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a report on

Changes the focus from something new (update) to something more formal (report).

information concerning

Replaces 'update' with 'information' and 'about' with the more formal 'concerning'.

details regarding

Similar to information concerning, but specifies 'details'.

news concerning

Focuses specifically on 'news' rather than a general update.

progress report on

Specifies that the update is about progress.

the latest on

Implies a current or most recent update.

a briefing on

Suggests a more concise and formal presentation of information.

developments in

Highlights changes and advancements.

the current status of

Focuses on the present situation.

insights into

Implies a deeper understanding or analysis.

FAQs

How do I use "an update about" in a sentence?

Use "an update about" to introduce new information or developments on a specific topic. For example, "I wanted to give you an update about the project's progress".

What's a more concise alternative to "an update about"?

Consider using alternatives such as "an update on" or "information regarding" for a more streamlined sentence.

Is it always necessary to use "an update about" when providing new information?

No, it is not always necessary. Depending on the context, simpler prepositions like "on" or "regarding" may suffice. Choose the option that best fits the tone and conciseness of your writing.

What's the difference between "an update about" and "a report on"?

"An update about" generally refers to new or changed information, while "a report on" is often a more formal and comprehensive account of a topic or situation.