Unpunctuality: meaning, definitions and examples

General term for not being on time, often used in formal settings or written language.

• Her unpunctuality has caused meetings to start late

Describes the state of not being on time, often used in relation to people or personal habits.

• His constant lateness is becoming a problem at work

Mostly used in formal or semi-formal settings to describe habitual or repeated instances of being late, often carries a slightly negative connotation.

• Tardiness can have a serious impact on your performance review

Refers to a specific instance of running late or the time that something has been pushed back, often used for events, transportation, or deadlines.

• The train was delayed due to technical issues

Best used in formal or official settings to describe a habitual or consistent failure to be on time.

• His unpunctuality is becoming a serious issue at work
• The company's policy does not tolerate unpunctuality

Often used in a school or workplace environment to describe habitual lateness. It can carry a slightly negative connotation.

• Frequent tardiness can lead to disciplinary action
• Her tardiness is affecting her team's performance

Commonly used in everyday conversations and typically refers to a specific instance of not being on time, rather than a habitual behavior.

• His continual lateness is frustrating
• She apologized for her lateness to the meeting

Used to refer to both planned and unplanned postponements in various circumstances, including travel, events, and processes.

• The flight was delayed due to bad weather
• There is a delay in the project due to technical difficulties