Which is correct:
"exceed the deadline" or "overrun the deadline"?

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exceed the deadline

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase means to go beyond the set deadline or to surpass the specified time limit.

Examples:

  • The project exceeded the deadline by two weeks.
  • We must ensure that we do not exceed the deadline for submission.
  • The team worked hard to ensure they did not exceed the deadline.
  • It is important to plan well to avoid exceeding the deadline.
  • The company policy does not allow projects to exceed the deadline.

Alternatives:

  • miss the deadline
  • be late for the deadline
  • fail to meet the deadline
  • go past the deadline
  • pass the deadline

overrun the deadline

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase means to surpass the set deadline or to go beyond the specified time limit.

Examples:

  • The construction project overran the deadline due to unforeseen circumstances.
  • The team was worried that they might overrun the deadline for the project.
  • It is crucial to monitor progress to avoid overrunning the deadline.
  • The company faced financial penalties for overrunning the deadline.
  • The report was delayed and overran the deadline set by the client.

Alternatives:

  • exceed the deadline
  • miss the deadline
  • be late for the deadline
  • fail to meet the deadline
  • go past the deadline
Both 'exceed the deadline' and 'overrun the deadline' are correct phrases that can be used interchangeably to indicate that a deadline has been passed or not met. They are both commonly used in English and convey the same meaning.

Last updated: March 29, 2024

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