asking for an update

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "asking 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 am writing to you today, asking for an update on the project timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

In October, I wrote asking for an update.

The Guardian

"Somebody will charge into the tent and start asking for an update on the Texas-Oklahoma football game," Ogilvy said.

The New York Times - Sports

For those asking for an update on the OBOers contribution to Afghan cricket following the 2010 T20, here's Andy Bull.

The Guardian - Sport

Every morning when Dinallo got to work, there was a message from his boss asking for an update on the investigation.

The New Yorker

The fact that one of Mr Blunkett's officials later emailed the IND asking for an update on the case casts doubt on his insistence that he was simply raising it as an example of a broader problem.

The Guardian

Cable said he was simply asking for an update on the prosecutors' investigation given that it is now five years since the bank's £45bn bailout and "the public are impatient in terms of holding people to account".

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

A UN refugee agency remains indispensable but donor states should be asking for an updated model.

The Guardian - Opinion

In July, Bassing received a letter from the Academy asking for an updated list of credits and informing him brightly that he might "qualify for emeritus status".

The New Yorker

Readers have asked for an update on her health.

The New York Times

Parcells was asked for an update on Taylor.

The New York Times - Sports

Another policeman walked into the room and asked for an update.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When "asking for an update", be specific about what information you need and the timeframe you are interested in. This will help the recipient provide a more focused and useful response.

Common error

Don't assume that people will automatically provide updates. It's often necessary to "ask for an update" to stay informed, especially in busy environments or with complex projects.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "asking for an update" functions as a request for information regarding the current status or progress of a task, project, or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a grammatically correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "asking for an update" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to inquire about the current status of something. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is correct and usable in English. Its usage is most prevalent in news and media, academia, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, being specific about your request ensures a more targeted response. Alternatives like "requesting an update" can be used in more formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

requesting an update

Replaces "asking" with the more formal "requesting".

would like an update

A more polite way of expressing the need for an update.

inquiring about the status

Focuses on the "status" of something, making the inquiry more specific.

seeking a progress report

Emphasizes the desire for a formal "progress report".

inquiring about the current situation

Broader than just progress; asks about the overall "situation".

checking on the progress

A more informal way of "checking" the current situation.

seeking information about progress

Similar to seeking a progress report but less formal.

following up on the matter

Suggests a previous interaction and a subsequent inquiry.

requesting information on current state

A more elaborate alternative, highlighting the need for information.

wanting to know the latest developments

Focuses on "latest developments" or changes that have occurred.

FAQs

How can I use "asking for an update" in a sentence?

You can use "asking for an update" when you need to inquire about the progress or current status of a task, project, or situation. For example: "I am /s/asking+for+an+update on the project timeline."

What's a more formal way to say "asking for an update"?

A more formal alternative to "asking for an update" is "requesting an update". This phrasing is suitable for professional communication and official inquiries.

What can I say instead of "asking for an update" in an email?

In an email, you can use phrases like "inquiring about the status", "seeking a progress report", or "following up on the matter" as alternatives to "asking for an update".

Is it impolite to "ask for an update" too frequently?

Yes, frequent requests can be perceived as pushy. Space out your requests appropriately. If you haven't heard back after a reasonable time, send an email "reminding the interviewer who you are".