A1adjective1K

Late

UK /["/leɪt/"]/US /["/leɪt/"]/

Definition

arriving, happening or done after the expected, arranged or usual time

In simple words: After the expected time

Examples

I am late for my appointment today.
She always arrives late to the class.
Don't worry, the bus is never late.
He was late to the party because of traffic.
It's better to be late than never show up at all.

Usage notes

Use 'late' to describe someone who is not on time for an event or task. Avoid using it in very formal contexts, where 'tardy' might be preferred.

Grammar pattern

late + adjective/noun/verb phrase

Memory hint

Think of a clock striking late hours, like a bell ringing at 10 PM.

Collocations

be
feel
seem
extremely
fairly
very
for
in
into
an hour, ten minutes, etc. late
leave it rather, very, etc. late

Synonyms

delayed
tardy
overdue
behind schedule
belated

Antonyms

early
on time

Common mistakes

Confusing 'late' with 'lately', which means recently.
Using 'late' with the wrong tense, for example, saying 'I will be late yesterday.'
Confusing 'late' with 'later' when indicating time.