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belatedly
/bɪˈleɪtɪdli/
after the expected or proper time
She sent the birthday card belatedly after forgetting the date.
She sent the card late, after the birthday had already passed.
general
After the expected or proper time; late
The apology came belatedly, after the damage was already done.
The apology arrived too late, after the harm had already occurred.
He realized belatedly that he had made a mistake.
He only noticed his mistake after it was too late.
Often used to express regret or acknowledgment of tardiness.
Collocations
belatedly realizeto understand something too latebelatedly apologizeto say sorry after a delay
Synonyms
Antonyms
Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal
Use 'belatedly' in formal writing or polite speech. In casual conversation, 'late' is more common.
Word Origin
From 'belated' (late) + '-ly' (adverb suffix), first recorded in the 16th century.
Usage Notes
Often used to soften the impact of being late, especially in formal or polite contexts.
Word Breakdown
belate
to make late
root-ly
adverb suffix
suffixEnglish Dictionary