bring a date

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bring a date" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase when inviting someone to an event or gathering where they are encouraged to bring a guest or romantic partner. For example: "Please join us for the holiday party next week! Don't forget to bring a date!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

She'd probably bring a date.

The New Yorker

Come, and bring a date!

The New Yorker

I noticed the invite said he could bring a date.

The New York Times

"Doubles was a great place to bring a date," she recalled.

The New York Times

Ay Kitchen is a respectable place to bring a date, or your mother, for a good Turkish meal.

The New York Times

You're not expected to bring a date everywhere, and you don't feel excluded if you're not involved with someone".

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

I imagined bringing a date home, and saying, "Oh, that?

The New York Times

They each brought a date to cheer them on.

The New York Times

He glanced around to see if maybe she had brought a date.

The New Yorker

It's his own fault: he brings a date without warning his hostess, who has invited another single woman.

The Guardian - Books

Hubby should call his college pal and say: "You're welcome to stay in a separate condo, but no one else is bringing a date.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When extending an invitation, clarify whether guests are welcome to "bring a date" to ensure they feel comfortable and informed about the social setting.

Common error

Avoid assuming that all invitees are aware they can "bring a date". Explicitly state "and guest" on the invitation to prevent misunderstandings or uninvited guests.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bring a date" primarily functions as a verb phrase, where "bring" is the verb and "a date" is the object. It's commonly used to extend an invitation to someone, suggesting they are welcome to bring a romantic partner or companion to an event. Ludwig provides numerous examples of this usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "bring a date" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression for inviting someone to an event with a companion. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is appropriate for various contexts, especially in news and media. While generally neutral in tone, its suitability can vary depending on the formality of the setting. When using this phrase, it's essential to clarify whether guests are welcome to bring someone to avoid misunderstandings. Consider alternatives such as "invite a plus one" or "bring a guest" to tailor the invitation to the specific occasion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

invite a plus one

Implies the invitation explicitly includes a guest.

bring a companion

More formal, suggesting any kind of companion, not necessarily romantic.

bring a guest

General term for bringing someone along.

take someone as your date

Focuses on the act of choosing someone to accompany you.

escort someone to the event

More formal, suggesting a protective or courteous role.

have someone accompany you

Highlights the act of being accompanied.

bring someone along

General and informal way to include someone.

bring a partner

Specifically suggests a romantic or business associate.

bring someone special

Emphasizes the importance or affection for the person.

bring your significant other

Specifically refers to a romantic partner in a serious relationship.

FAQs

How can I politely ask if I can "bring a date" to an event?

You can politely ask the host by saying something like, "I'm looking forward to the event! I was wondering if it would be possible to "bring a date" as well?".

What does it mean when an invitation says "and guest"?

When an invitation says "and guest", it means that you are welcome to "bring a date" or a companion to the event. This is a common way to extend an invitation to someone and allow them to bring someone along.

Is it rude to ask to "bring a date" if the invitation doesn't specify?

It's generally considered best practice not to ask if you can "bring a date" if the invitation does not explicitly state "and guest". However, if you have a close relationship with the host, you may politely inquire, but be prepared for them to say no.

What's an alternative to saying "bring a date"?

Depending on the context, you could say "invite a plus one", "bring a companion", or simply "bring a guest".