B2noun1K

Delay

UK /["/dɪˈleɪ/"]/US /["/dɪˈleɪ/"]/

Definition

a period of time when somebody/something has to wait because of a problem that makes something slow or late

In simple words: To make something happen later than planned.

Examples

  • Due to the heavy traffic, there was a significant delay in our arrival time.
  • The project faced delays because of unexpected complications.
  • He decided to delay the meeting until next week to allow everyone to prepare.
  • The delay in the flight caused many travelers to miss their connections.
  • She expressed her frustration at the delay in receiving her package.

Usage notes

Use 'delay' when referring to postponing events or actions. It's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, but avoid using it in very casual conversations where simpler words like 'wait' might suffice.

Grammar pattern

delay + object

Memory hint

Think 'Dela-ate' — imagine a person eating while holding up a clock, making everyone wait.

Collocations

  • considerable
  • enormous
  • lengthy
  • series
  • be subject to
  • be plagued by
  • encounter
  • occur
  • without delay
  • delay in
  • delay of
  • considerable
  • enormous
  • lengthy
  • series
  • be subject to
  • be plagued by
  • encounter
  • occur
  • without delay
  • delay in
  • delay of

Synonyms

  • postpone
  • procrastinate
  • hold up
  • stall
  • suspend

Antonyms

  • advance
  • hasten
  • expedite

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'delay' with 'defer' — 'defer' is often more formal.
  • Using 'delayed' incorrectly in tense — check verb forms for accuracy.
  • Overusing 'delay' in casual speech when simpler options like 'wait' are available.