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Delayed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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delayed

[dɪˈleɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in time

Causing something to be late or postponed; not happening immediately or at the planned time.

Synonyms

belated, deferred, postponed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
delayed

Use when something is happening later than planned, typically referring to transportation, projects, or responses.

  • The train was delayed by two hours.
  • Our flight is delayed due to bad weather.
  • His response was delayed because of the network issue.
postponed

Used when an event or an action is rescheduled to a later time, generally without negative connotations.

  • The concert has been postponed to next week.
  • Because of the rain, the match was postponed.
  • The meeting was postponed to accommodate everyone's schedule.
deferred

Refers to something being put off to a later time, often in formal or financial contexts.

  • The payment was deferred until next month.
  • The decision has been deferred to the next meeting.
  • They deferred their college admission for a year.
belated

Typically refers to something that should have happened earlier, often relating to greetings, wishes, or acknowledgments.

  • Happy belated birthday!
  • I sent him a belated thank you note.
  • She received a belated apology.

Examples of usage

  • The flight was delayed due to bad weather.
  • We apologize for the delayed response to your email.
Context #2 | Verb

action

Make (someone or something) late or slow.

Synonyms

hold back, postpone, put off.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
delayed

This term is commonly used when something is not happening at its expected time. It suggests that a process or event has been slowed down or deferred but does not imply cancellation.

  • The flight was delayed due to bad weather
  • The project launch has been delayed for a week

Examples of usage

  • The traffic jam delayed our arrival at the party.
  • He delayed taking action on the issue.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'delayed'

The word 'delayed' originates from the Middle English word 'delayen', which means 'to put off or retard'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century.

See also: delay, delayer.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,168, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.