late

/leɪt/
adjectiveadverb★Beginner
formalinformal

Happening or arriving after the expected, scheduled, or usual time

The train was late due to bad weather.

The meeting was late because of traffic.

💡

Can describe events, people, or actions that occur after the expected time.

formalinformal

Not early; delayed

He arrived late for the appointment.

She finished her work late in the evening.

💡

Often used to describe punctuality or timing issues.

Collocations

late at nightafter midnight or very late in the eveninglate arrivalsomeone or something that arrives after the expected timelate paymenta payment made after the due date

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

better late than neverproverb
It is better to do something late than not to do it at all
late bloomerphrase
Someone who develops or achieves success later in life than others

💡Pro Tip

Adverb vs. Adjective

Use 'late' as an adverb when describing how something happens (e.g., 'arrived late'), and as an adjective when describing a state (e.g., 'late arrival').

⚡Gold Rule

Punctuality

In formal contexts, being late can be considered impolite or unprofessional. Always aim to be on time.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'lat', from Old English 'læt', meaning 'slow, sluggish, or late'. Related to Old Norse 'látr' and Old High German 'laz'.

📝Usage Notes

Can function as both an adjective and an adverb. As an adverb, it often follows the verb it modifies.

Word Breakdown

late
after the expected time
root
English Dictionary