Ask for a Deadline Extension in Portuguese at Work
Ask before the deadline when you can, describe the remaining work, and suggest a date you can actually meet.
Real Life Portuguese · 5 min read · Updated October 15, 2026
The short answer
Use prazo to talk about a deadline and prorrogação do prazo to mean an extension of the deadline. A direct request gives your manager or client time to consider the options before the original date passes.
Raise the issue before the deadline if possible
Be specific about which task you mean. A short message that names the deliverable is easier to answer than a general note saying that you need more time.
Queria conversar sobre o prazo do relatório.
I wanted to talk about the report deadline.
Seria possível prorrogar o prazo até sexta-feira?
Would it be possible to extend the deadline until Friday?
Estou avisando com antecedência porque não vou terminar hoje.
I’m letting you know in advance because I won’t finish today.
Explain what is finished and what remains
A brief status update helps the other person understand the request. Name the part that is complete and the part that still needs review, information, or approval.
Keep the explanation factual and avoid blaming a colleague. If another person’s input is still needed, state what you are waiting for and when you asked for it.
A análise está pronta, mas ainda falta revisar os números.
The analysis is ready, but the figures still need review.
Estou esperando a confirmação do fornecedor para concluir a planilha.
I’m waiting for the supplier’s confirmation to finish the spreadsheet.
O primeiro rascunho está pronto. Vou revisar as referências amanhã.
The first draft is ready. I’ll review the references tomorrow.
Suggest a realistic date and a smaller alternative
Propose a new date only after estimating the remaining work. If the complete deliverable cannot move, ask whether you can send a partial version or prioritize one section first.
The person may accept, decline, or suggest a different plan. Treat the new date as agreed only after you receive confirmation.
Consigo enviar a versão final na terça-feira.
I can send the final version on Tuesday.
Posso entregar a parte principal amanhã e o restante na sexta.
I can deliver the main part tomorrow and the rest on Friday.
Qual parte é mais importante para você receber primeiro?
Which part is most important for you to receive first?
Confirm the revised plan in writing
After agreeing on a new date, repeat it with the deliverable so nobody confuses the revised deadline with the original. Mention any partial delivery or review step too.
A concise confirmation turns a spoken adjustment into a shared plan and gives you a useful reminder.
Combinado: envio o relatório revisado na terça-feira.
Agreed: I’ll send the revised report on Tuesday.
Obrigado por ajustar o prazo. Aviso se surgir algum problema.
Thanks for adjusting the deadline. I’ll let you know if a problem comes up.
Ficou combinado que a primeira parte chega amanhã.
We agreed that the first part will arrive tomorrow.
Put it into practice
Explain the status, propose a date you can meet, and confirm the revised plan after the other person agrees.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “I’m letting you know in advance because I won’t finish today”?
Choose an answer to check yourself.
Keep practicing with the Real Life Portuguese app
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