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deadline extension

/ˈdɛdlaɪn ɪkˈstɛnʃən/
noun phrase★Intermediate— extra time to complete a task
💼Business
formal

an official allowance of additional time beyond an original deadline to complete a task or project

Due to unforeseen complications, the team requested a deadline extension from the client.

The team asked the client for more time because of unexpected difficulties.

She applied for a deadline extension after her computer crashed and she lost her work.

She formally asked for more time after her work was accidentally deleted.

💡

Common in academic, professional, and administrative settings. Often requires formal approval.

Collocations

request a deadline extensionto formally ask for more timegrant a deadline extensionto officially approve additional timedeadline extension requesta formal application for more time

Synonyms

extra timetime extensionadditional timepostponement

Antonyms

deadlinefinal datecutoff

Related Phrases

time managementphrase
the process of organizing and planning time allocation
overdueword
past the deadline without completion

💡Pro Tip

How to request a deadline extension professionally

Always submit your request in writing (email or formal letter) as soon as you realize you need more time. Explain the reason briefly, provide a new proposed deadline, and apologize for any inconvenience. Example: 'Dear Professor, I’m writing to request a one-week extension for the assignment due to unexpected personal circumstances. I’d be happy to submit it by [new date]. Thank you for your understanding.'

⚡Gold Rule

Request extensions early

Never wait until the last minute to ask for an extension. Requests made after the deadline are rarely approved.

Be specific

Clearly state how much extra time you need and why. Vague requests are less likely to be granted.

📖Word Origin

Compound of 'deadline' (from 'dead' + 'line', originally a line drawn around a prison beyond which prisoners could be shot) and 'extension' (from Latin 'extensio', meaning 'stretching out'). The modern business sense of 'deadline' emerged in the 20th century.

📝Usage Notes

Typically used in professional, academic, or formal contexts. Informal alternatives include 'more time' or 'extra days'. Always check if an extension is permitted by policy or agreement.

Word Breakdown

deadline
the latest time or date by which something must be completed
compound
+
extension
the act of making something longer or larger in time
root
English Dictionary

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