ask for a delay

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask for a delay" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when requesting additional time to complete a task or meet a deadline. Example: "Due to unforeseen circumstances, I need to ask for a delay in submitting my report."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

Satisfied that he was, Torre did not ask for a delay of game, and the umpiring crew chief, Bruce Froemming, saw no need for one, anyway.

The New York Times - Sports

Abramson said that if he were one of Tsarnev's lawyers, he would ask for a delay of three to six months "until the Paris comparison fades a bit".

The Guardian

There had been some concern that sanitation officials might drag their feet and ask for a delay in the resumption of full recycling.

The New York Times

But the restaurant association said it was filing an appeal and would appear before Judge Holwell on Thursday to ask for a delay until after the appeal.

The New York Times

Indonesia is so worried that it plans to ask for a delay in removing tariffs from some items like steel products, textiles, petrochemicals and electronics.

The New York Times

In several instances, investigators thought they were about to meet with him, only to have Rodriguez and his lawyers ask for a delay.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Ask for a delayed response.

WikiHow

So I asked for a delay.

The New York Times

"We were asking for a delay until then," she said.

The New York Times

They asked for a delay in a confirmation vote, scheduled for Thursday.

The New York Times

Mr. Brown also asked for a delay in putting the legislation in place until January 2016.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you "ask for a delay", provide a clear and justified reason to increase the likelihood of approval. For instance, explain unforeseen circumstances or the need for additional resources.

Common error

Don't just "ask for a delay" without specifying the new proposed deadline. A specific request shows you've considered the implications and are prepared to manage the extended timeframe.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask for a delay" functions as a request. It is used to formally or informally seek a postponement or extension of a deadline, event, or obligation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Science

6%

Academia

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ask for a delay" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to request a postponement or extension. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for a variety of contexts, though most frequently found in news and media. When using the phrase, it's important to provide clear justifications for the delay and suggest a revised timeline. Alternatives include phrases like "request a postponement" or "apply for an extension". Following these guidelines ensures effective and professional communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

request a postponement

Formally requests that an event be moved to a later time.

seek a deferment

Implies a formal request to postpone an obligation or payment.

apply for an extension

Specifically asks for more time to complete a task.

plead for more time

Emphasizes the urgency or need for additional time.

petition for a continuance

Legal context for requesting a trial or hearing be delayed.

put in a request for time extension

A more elaborate way to ask for additional time.

seek a moratorium

Requests a temporary prohibition or suspension of an activity.

negotiate an extension

Involves discussing and reaching an agreement on a longer deadline.

delay proceedings

Focuses on the act of delaying an official process.

stall for time

Informal and suggests delaying something, often to gain an advantage.

FAQs

How can I politely "ask for a delay"?

Start by acknowledging the original deadline, explain your reason for needing more time, propose a new deadline, and express gratitude for their understanding. Alternatives include using phrases like "request a postponement" or "apply for an extension".

What's the difference between "ask for a delay" and "request an extension"?

"Ask for a delay" is a more general term, while "request an extension" specifically refers to asking for more time to complete a task or meet a deadline. Both phrases are acceptable, but the latter is more precise.

What should I include when I "ask for a delay"?

Clearly state the original deadline, the reason for needing a delay, the length of the delay needed, and any steps you've taken to mitigate the impact of the delay. Being transparent and proactive can improve your chances of getting the delay approved.

When is it inappropriate to "ask for a delay"?

It's generally inappropriate to "ask for a delay" if the reason is due to poor planning, lack of effort, or if it significantly disrupts others' schedules without a valid justification. Consider alternatives before resorting to requesting a delay.