seek an extension

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'seek an extension' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone is requesting additional time for something. For example, "The student was unable to complete his essay by the due date, so he sought an extension from the professor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

He could also seek an extension of the grand jury's term, which expires on Friday.

The New York Times

"We seek an extension of the debt ceiling through at least the end of 2012.

The New York Times

However, despite the agreement on price, Sainsbury's could seek an extension to the deadline in order to complete due diligence.

The Guardian - Business

Supporters of the controllers also said they would seek an extension of the current authorization, which expires on Sept. 30.

The New York Times

Attention in Washington will now focus on whether General Kayani will seek an extension when his term expires this fall.

The New York Times

The administration's decision not to seek an extension means that the Superfund trust fund will be out of money by 2004.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

MPS had sought an extension until 20 January.

The Guardian - Business

(He then paid a lot more when he sought an extension of the April 15 filing deadline).

The New York Times

A formal request was filed in October 2004 with the landmarks commission seeking an extension that stretched to the Hudson River.

The New York Times - Arts

The Gore campaign quickly joined a lawsuit initially filed by Volusia County seeking an extension of that deadline.

The New York Times

NBC executives first asked Paramount whether the studio was seeking an extension at an increase or decrease.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing formally, use "seek an extension" to clearly indicate a request for more time, specifying the reason for the request to strengthen your case.

Common error

Avoid using "seek an extension" when you've already been granted one. It's more appropriate to acknowledge the granted extension or the new deadline, rather than suggesting you're still in the process of requesting it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seek an extension" functions as a verb phrase, where "seek" is the main verb expressing the action of requesting or trying to obtain, and "an extension" serves as the direct object, specifying what is being sought. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

13%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Academia

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "seek an extension" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate a request for additional time. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used across various contexts, from news reports to formal requests, making it a versatile phrase. When using this phrase, clarity in the reason for the request strengthens the appeal. While alternatives like "request a prolongation" or "apply for an extension" exist, "seek an extension" maintains a balance of formality and directness, making it a suitable choice in many scenarios. However, be mindful not to use it if an extension has already been granted; instead, acknowledge the new deadline.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

request a prolongation

Focuses on formally asking for something to be made longer.

apply for an extension

Highlights the action of submitting a formal request.

pursue an extension

Emphasizes the effort and determination in obtaining the extension.

solicit an extension

Implies asking for or trying to obtain an extension from someone.

look for an extension

General way to indicate searching or hoping for a time extension.

try to get an extension

Informal way to express the attempt to obtain an extension.

aim for an extension

Suggests the extension is a goal or target.

work toward an extension

Highlights the ongoing effort to achieve an extension.

negotiate an extension

Involves discussion and bargaining to secure an extension.

arrange an extension

Implies careful planning to ensure the extension is granted.

FAQs

How can I use "seek an extension" in a sentence?

You can use "seek an extension" when you want to express that someone is requesting additional time for something, such as "The student had to "seek an extension" on the project due to unforeseen circumstances."

What does it mean to "seek an extension"?

To "seek an extension" means to formally request additional time beyond the original deadline or duration for a task, project, or agreement.

Which is more appropriate, "seek an extension" or "request an extension"?

Both "seek an extension" and "request an extension" are appropriate and often interchangeable. "Seek" might imply a slightly more active or persistent effort in obtaining the extension.

What are some situations where one might "seek an extension"?

One might "seek an extension" for various reasons, such as needing more time to complete a project, facing unexpected challenges, or requiring additional resources to meet the original deadline.