few minutes longer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "few minutes longer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating a short additional amount of time needed before an action or event occurs. Example: "I just need a few minutes longer to finish this report before we can leave."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

We chatted for a few minutes longer.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I waited a few minutes longer, then ordered.

The New Yorker

Stir in chorizo and saute a few minutes longer.

The New York Times

(NBC and ABC anchors lingered only a few minutes longer).

The New York Times

3. Uncover and cook a few minutes longer.

The New York Times

The eggs should be just about set; cook a few minutes longer if they're not.

The New York Times - Health

Dried noodles take a few minutes longer, depending on the thickness.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Add the curry powder and cook for a few minutes longer.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Stir in cream, cook a few minutes longer until cream reduces somewhat, then remove from heat.

The New York Times

The flight from Texas to Hawaii often runs a few minutes longer than eight hours.

The New York Times

If it needs it, leave it to cook for a few minutes longer.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "few minutes longer" in cooking instructions, be specific about what visual cues to look for to avoid overcooking.

Common error

Avoid using "few minutes longer" when the actual time extension is significantly more. If it's closer to 10-15 minutes, be precise to prevent misunderstanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "few minutes longer" functions as an adverbial modifier, indicating the duration or extent to which an action or state is prolonged. It modifies verbs or clauses to specify a short extension of time, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Lifestyle

20%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Sport

3%

Food

7%

Travel

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "few minutes longer" is a common and grammatically correct way to indicate a short extension of time. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across various contexts, from news and lifestyle to cooking and general instructions. It functions as an adverbial modifier, and is deemed neutral in tone. While versatile, remember to be precise if the extension is more substantial to avoid miscommunication. Its common alternatives include phrases like "a little while more" and "slightly extended time".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a little while more

Replaces "few minutes" with a more general term for a short period.

a bit more time

Uses a more general term to quantify an extra small amount of time.

a brief extension

Highlights the shortness of the extended period.

a tad longer

Uses informal language to indicate a small increase in time.

slightly extended time

Uses more formal language to describe a short time extension.

extend the duration slightly

Emphasizes the act of prolonging the time.

a short delay

Focuses on the pause or wait time implied by the extension.

continue for a short time

Highlights the continuous nature of the action for a brief period.

linger a little longer

Implies staying or remaining for a short extended period.

hold on a moment longer

Suggests waiting for a short extended time.

FAQs

How can I use "few minutes longer" in a sentence?

You can use "few minutes longer" to indicate a slight extension of time needed for an activity, as in, "Could you wait a "few minutes longer" while I finish this task?"

What's a less common way to say "few minutes longer"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a brief extension", "a little while more", or "slightly extended time", which offer more formal or descriptive options.

Is it okay to use "few minutes longer" in professional writing?

Yes, "few minutes longer" is generally acceptable in professional writing, but consider the context. In very formal settings, "brief extension" might be preferred.

What is the difference between "few minutes longer" and "few minutes later"?

"Few minutes longer" implies an extension of an ongoing activity, while "few minutes later" refers to a point in time that will occur in the future.