how about next

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "how about next" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used to suggest or ask about a future time or event. For example: We've discussed the current project, so how about next we look at the plans for next year?.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

How about next month?

The New York Times - Sports

How about next year you sponsor a campaign against too much advertising in televised sports?

The Guardian - Sport

How about next Monday?" Myself: "I'll be there -- bruised but present".

The New York Times

Bridget replied, "How about next week?" A few days later Eric invited her to a concert at Radio City Music Hall and they saw each other every couple of weeks after that.

The New York Times

How about next point wins, just to save anyone any more heartache?

BBC

How about next weekend, same time (but maybe without bats)?

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

"Since you're busy this week how about next week?" I recently received an email from an acquaintance asking if he could stay with me while visiting New York.

HuffPost

If they say, "How about next weekend?", say that you can't make it.

WikiHow

"But at 8 years old, do you think your son's going to be the next Dale Earnhardt, or the next Joe Montana or Brett Favre?" How about the next Wendell Scott?

The New York Times - Sports

A bidder laughed and said, "Uh, how about right next to it?" Indeed, the next car was a 1963 Impala, a two-door hardtop that had been driven just 11 miles.

The New York Times

The auctioneer, Yvette VanDerBrink, tried to nudge the price higher: "Where are you guys going to find another one?" A bidder laughed and responded, "Uh, how about right next to it?" Indeed, the next car was a 1963 Impala, also a two-door hardtop, showing just 11 miles.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "how about next", ensure the context is clear regarding what 'next' refers to. For instance, specify the time frame or event to avoid ambiguity. For example: "How about next week?" or "How about next steps?"

Common error

Avoid using "how about next" without a specific reference point. Saying just "How about next?" can be confusing if the listener doesn't know what 'next' is referring to. Always provide context to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "how about next" functions primarily as an interrogative suggestion. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and serves to propose an alternative time, option, or action. It invites consideration of what follows the current point of discussion or plan.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Wiki

13%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

4%

Social Media

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "how about next" is a grammatically correct and commonly used interrogative suggestion. It serves to propose an alternative time, option, or action and, according to Ludwig AI, is widely used in diverse contexts, from news articles to casual conversations. While the register is generally neutral, ensuring clarity by providing a specific reference point is crucial. Consider alternatives such as "what about subsequent" for more formal settings. By understanding its function, purpose, and appropriate usage, you can effectively incorporate "how about next" into your writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

How about the upcoming

Similar to the original, but emphasizes a specific event or period that is approaching.

How about the subsequent

More formal replacement, indicating what immediately comes after.

What about subsequent

Replaces "next" with a more formal term indicating what follows.

What about the next step

Focuses on the progression of actions or stages.

How does the following sound

Changes the structure to focus on the appeal of a suggestion.

What do you think of the coming

Shifts the focus to gathering opinions about an upcoming event or time.

What about what follows

Uses a more general term to refer to the subsequent action or event.

How does the following option sound

Specifically asks for feedback on a suggested alternative.

What are your thoughts on the coming

Seeks input on something that is about to happen.

How about the near future

Broader timeframe, suggesting something in the foreseeable time.

FAQs

How can I use "how about next" in a sentence?

You can use "how about next" to suggest an alternative or inquire about future plans. For example, "We can't meet this week, "how about next week"?" or "If this solution doesn't work, "how about the next option"?"

What's a more formal way to say "how about next"?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives like "What about the subsequent" or "How does the following sound?". These phrases provide a similar meaning but with a more polished and professional feel. See also "What about subsequent" or "How does the following sound"?

When is it appropriate to use "how about next"?

It is appropriate to use "how about next" in informal and neutral contexts when suggesting an alternative or making plans. It's suitable for everyday conversations, emails, and discussions where a relaxed tone is acceptable. However, it might be too casual for very formal settings. You can use "How about the upcoming"?

What are some common phrases used with "how about next"?

Common phrases include "how about next week?", "how about next month?", and "how about the next step?". These phrases are used to suggest alternative times, dates, or actions. You can use alternatives like "What about the next step"?