Deferred: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to the postponement of an action or event to a later time, often implying it has been intentionally set aside for now and will be reconsidered or addressed in the future.

• The payment of taxes has been deferred until the end of the year.
• Her admission to the university was deferred until the next academic session.

Used when an event or action is rescheduled to a later time or date, often officially announced. It often implies that the event will still take place, just not at the originally intended time.

• The meeting has been postponed until next week.
• The concert has been postponed because the singer got sick.

Used when something happens later than expected or planned, often due to unforeseen circumstances or obstacles. It does not necessarily imply a formal decision to change the timing.

• The flight was delayed due to bad weather.
• The project launch has been delayed because of technical issues.

Used when an activity or process is temporarily stopped, often implying that it may be resumed later. It can also carry a formal or official connotation.

• The employee was suspended for violating company policies.
• The service was suspended due to technical difficulties.

This word is typically used in formal contexts, such as business or education, where an action or event is officially put off until a later time.

• The committee deferred the decision until next month.
• He deferred his admission to the university for a year.

Use this word when something is held up or takes more time than expected. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

• The flight was delayed due to bad weather.
• His response to the email was delayed.

This word is often used in contexts where an event or meeting is arranged for a later time, typically used in both formal and informal settings.

• The concert was postponed because of the rain.
• Our meeting has been postponed to next Monday.

Use this word when an event or appointment is rearranged for a different time. It implies setting a new date or time.

• The doctor's appointment was rescheduled for next week.
• The game was rescheduled due to unforeseen circumstances.