Without delay

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Without delay" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something should be done immediately or without any waiting period. Example: "Please send the report to me without delay so that we can proceed with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

She called for dialogue to begin "without delay".

Wikipedia

"Without DeLay, the house will be balkanised".

The Guardian

Without delay, I went with them.

The Guardian

Serve without delay.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"But without delay means without delay".

The New York Times

She should do both without delay.

The New York Times

The game went on without delay.

The New York Times - Sports

Pass the payroll tax cut without delay.

The New York Times

Either way, serve without delay.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They should be taken without delay.

The New York Times

taking place or accomplished without delay.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Without delay" to emphasize the urgency and importance of taking immediate action. It's suitable for formal contexts where you want to convey a sense of promptness and efficiency.

Common error

Avoid using "Without delay" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for more natural alternatives like "right away" or "immediately" to maintain a consistent tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Without delay" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate that an action should be performed immediately. It emphasizes the absence of any waiting period. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Without delay" is a grammatically sound phrase used to emphasize the immediate nature of an action. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and appropriate in formal writing. It's most commonly found in news and media contexts and is often used to convey urgency. While versatile, consider substituting it with synonyms like "immediately" or "at once" in more casual settings. When writing, ensure that using "Without delay" enhances rather than detracts from the overall tone and message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Immediately

Replaces the phrase with a single adverb emphasizing instant action.

At once

Offers a more emphatic and direct synonym.

Instantly

Highlights the instantaneous nature of the action.

Right away

Presents a more conversational and informal alternative.

Promptly

Emphasizes quickness and efficiency.

Without hesitation

Focuses on the decisiveness and speed of the action, removing any pause.

Expeditiously

Suggests a more formal and efficient approach.

With all speed

Indicates a sense of urgency and swiftness.

Forthwith

A more archaic and formal way of saying immediately.

In short order

Implies the action will be completed quickly and efficiently.

FAQs

How can I use "Without delay" in a sentence?

You can use "Without delay" to emphasize that something should be done immediately. For example: "Please submit your application "without delay"."

What are some alternatives to "Without delay"?

Alternatives include "immediately", "at once", or "right away" depending on the level of formality you need.

When is it appropriate to use "Without delay"?

"Without delay" is appropriate in formal or professional contexts where you want to convey a sense of urgency and importance. It is frequently encountered in news reports, legal documents and official communications.

Is "Without delay" too formal for everyday conversation?

Yes, "Without delay" can sound overly formal in casual conversations. Simpler alternatives such as "immediately" or "right away" are generally preferred.