Definition of Delay
Quick Meaning of Delay
To postpone or make something happen at a later time than expected.
Detailed Definition of Delay
To cause something to happen later than planned
How to Pronounce Delay
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress falls on the second syllable: de-LAY. Rhymes with 'say', 'way', 'day'.
Watch out: Some learners add extra stress on first syllable, saying DAY-lay instead of de-LAY.
How to Use Delay in a Sentence
Each example shows “delay” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The bad weather delayed the flight by three hours.”
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“Don't delay your homework; finish it tonight.”
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“The construction project was delayed due to funding issues.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Delay
Common Synonyms for Delay
Smart Synonyms for Delay — When to Use Each
- postpone
- when formally pushing a scheduled event to a
- hold up
- when something unexpectedly blocks or slows progress
- defer
- when intentionally waiting to handle something later
Antonyms of Delay
Common Collocations with Delay
These phrases pair with “delay” in everyday English:
- delay a flight
- cause a delay
- delay a decision
- delay payment
- face delays
Common Mistakes When Using Delay
Even fluent speakers slip up with “delay”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The plane will delay at 3pm.
- ✓ Correct: The plane will depart at 3pm. (or The flight is delayed.)
- Why: 'Delay' is not usually used with 'at' for time. Use 'depart', 'arrive', or passive 'be delayed'.
- ✗ Wrong: She delayed to go to the party.
- ✓ Correct: She delayed going to the party.
- Why: After 'delay', use the gerund (verb+ing), not the infinitive.
Other Forms of Delay
Frequently Asked Questions About Delay
What is the meaning of "Delay"?
To postpone or make something happen at a later time than expected.
How do you pronounce "Delay"?
The IPA is /dɪˈleɪ/. Stress falls on the second syllable: de-LAY. Rhymes with 'say', 'way', 'day'.
What part of speech is "Delay"?
"Delay" is a verb at A2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Delay"?
Common synonyms include postpone, hold up, slow down.
How do you use "Delay" in a sentence?
For example: "The bad weather delayed the flight by three hours."