another two minutes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "another two minutes" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an additional duration of time, typically in a context where you are asking for or indicating a short wait. Example: "I just need another two minutes to finish this task before we can leave."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Follow Henry on Twitter.

Vice

There were another two minutes.

Independent

Another two minutes pass.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Once it is, flip the fish over and cook for another two minutes.

The New Yorker

At 1 07, a train rolled through, followed by another two minutes later.

The New York Times

Add chopped shrimp or lobster to the simmering stock, and cook for another two minutes.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Add chopped shrimp or lobster to the simmering stock, and cook another two minutes.

The New York Times - Food

When one side has a nice brown exterior, flip and cook for another two minutes.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

After another two minutes, I tried a third cat, and then in due course a fourth.

The New York Times - Magazine

When the undersides of the shrimp are pink (two to three minutes) turn them over; cook another two minutes.

The New Yorker

7. Add frozen rice cakes and scallion slices and cook until cakes are soft, another two minutes.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "another two minutes" when you need to be specific about a short amount of time needed or granted. It provides a clear and concise expectation.

Common error

Avoid using "another two minutes" in highly formal or professional contexts where precision is paramount. Instead, opt for phrases like "an additional two minutes" to maintain a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "another two minutes" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, indicating the duration of an action or state. As Ludwig AI suggests, it indicates an additional duration of time, usually short.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

14%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "another two minutes" is a grammatically sound and frequently used way to express a need for or an expectation of a short extension of time. According to Ludwig AI, its main function is indicating an additional duration of time, usually short. Its versatility allows it to fit into various contexts, from news and media to everyday conversations. While generally neutral in tone, it's wise to consider more formal alternatives like "two additional minutes" in professional settings. Remember to use this phrase when you need specificity, and avoid overly casual use in formal environments. Ludwig's examples demonstrate just how widely this simple phrase is employed to communicate temporal needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

two more minutes

Direct synonym, emphasizes the additional quantity of time.

just two minutes more

Reorders the words for emphasis, putting stress on the time remaining.

two additional minutes

More formal way of saying the same thing; sounds more official.

a couple more minutes

Slightly more informal, suggesting a small, unspecified amount of additional time.

two minutes extra

Highlights the additional aspect of the time.

just a few more minutes

Emphasizes the brevity of the additional time needed.

another moment or two

Uses 'moment' instead of 'minute' and makes the time passing sound lighter.

a short while longer

More general, doesn't specify the exact duration.

a little bit longer

Similar to "a short while longer", but slightly more informal.

briefly extend the time by two minutes

Very formal, almost technical phrasing; suited for instructions or schedules.

FAQs

How can I use "another two minutes" in a sentence?

You can use "another two minutes" to request or indicate a short amount of additional time, such as: "Could I have "another two minutes" to complete this task?" or "The cake needs "another two minutes" in the oven."

What are some alternatives to saying "another two minutes"?

Alternatives include "two more minutes", "a couple more minutes", or "just a few more minutes". The best choice depends on the level of formality and the context.

Is it ever incorrect to use the phrase "another two minutes"?

While grammatically correct, using "another two minutes" might be less suitable in very formal settings. In such cases, consider using "two additional minutes" for a more professional tone.

What does "another two minutes" imply about the timeframe?

"Another two minutes" implies a short, specific, and often critical amount of time. It suggests that the additional time is important for completing a task or achieving a desired outcome. It is similar to saying you need "just a little bit longer".