ask for an update

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask for an update" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to inquire about the current status or progress of a project, task, or situation. Example: "I will ask for an update on the project's timeline during the meeting tomorrow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

"We've made lots of calls and sent emails to ask for an update, but we're either cut off, can't get through, or don't receive a reply.

The Guardian - Money

The president said he called the director of the FBI to ask for an update on a possible criminal investigation into his ties with Russia.

The Guardian

Response: At the next team meeting tell X that the three of you are concerned about deadlines, ask for an update on his part, and work out an agreement on timing of next steps that is acceptable to all.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Ted Yoho (R-Fla). and Brad Sherman (D-Calif ., the heaD-Calif . Foreign Affairs subcommithee on Asia and theadscific, wrofe theTreasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on May 9 to ask Foreign Affairsn North Korea subcommitteed call fon more.

The Washington Post

So, your best bet would be to simply call the person you last spoke with, explain your position again, and ask for an update on what's happening.

Science Magazine

There's a resource issue [and people are time-constrained], but it's likely that if you ask for an update and we know that we've closed the case, we'll try and give you a call or let you know [if you call the SEC].

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Why would they ask for an updated one, he wondered, if they weren't preparing to grant the visa?

The New Yorker

If there's something missing or vague in your lease, ask for an updated version with more specific details.

Huffington Post

Readers have asked for an update on her health.

The New York Times

In October, I wrote asking for an update.

The Guardian

Parcells was asked for an update on Taylor.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When asking for an update, be specific about what information you need to avoid vague or unhelpful responses. For example, instead of "Can I have an update?", ask "Can I have an update on the project's timeline and key milestones?"

Common error

Don't simply say "Any updates?" This lacks context and may lead to incomplete answers. Instead, provide specific details about what information you're seeking. For instance, if inquiring about a delivery, specify "Can I get an update on the estimated delivery date for order #12345?".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask for an update" functions as a request or inquiry. It is typically used to solicit information about the current status or progress of a task, project, or situation. Ludwig AI showcases numerous examples where this phrase is employed in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ask for an update" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to inquire about the current status of something. Ludwig AI indicates that it is correct and usable in written English. It's versatile, fitting into a range of contexts from news reports to academic discussions. While there are more formal alternatives like "request a progress report", understanding the subtle differences helps tailor your language effectively, and being specific while using this phrase will lead to better results.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

request a progress report

Focuses specifically on requesting a formal report detailing progress.

inquire about the status

A more formal way to ask about the current condition or stage of something.

check on developments

Emphasizes checking for any new changes or advancements.

seek an overview

Implies wanting a summary or general picture of the current situation.

follow up on the matter

Indicates a continuation of a previous inquiry or discussion.

get the latest information

Highlights the desire for the most current details available.

touch base for insights

Suggests a brief communication to gain understanding or perspective.

solicit feedback on advancement

Specifically asks for opinions on the progress made.

ascertain the present state

A formal and somewhat indirect way of inquiring about the current condition.

call for a briefing

Requests a concise and informative presentation of the current situation.

FAQs

What is the best way to use "ask for an update" in a professional email?

In a professional email, you can use "ask for an update" by clearly stating the subject you need information on. For example: "I'd like to "ask for an update" on the marketing campaign's performance metrics".

Are there more formal alternatives to "ask for an update"?

Yes, you can use more formal alternatives such as "request a status report" or "inquire about the progress". These options are suitable for professional or official communication. Instead of using these alternatives, you can also just rephrase your sentences with ""ask for an update"".

How do I politely "ask for an update" without sounding demanding?

To politely "ask for an update", frame your request as a check-in. For instance, "I was just checking in to see if there are any updates on the Johnson account".

What's the difference between "ask for an update" and "demand an update"?

"Ask for an update" is a polite way to request information, while "demand an update" implies a forceful or urgent need for information. The former is generally preferred in professional settings, while the latter may be appropriate in situations where there is a critical need for immediate information.