a big delay

USAGE SUMMARY

"a big delay" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It generally means a significant amount of time held back in reaching a certain goal. For example, "The project suffered from a big delay in the construction process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

There'll be a big delay while a couple of chaps mend the footholds at Kumar's end and the PA man is torturing us with Queen while they do it.

The Guardian - Sport

How can there be such a big delay when they are clearly able to pluck an application out of the pile and turn it round in less than 24 hours as long as you're willing to pay an extra £79?

BBC

As an example, Zakin said that if your flight has a big delay, your Hyper agent can try to help you find an earlier departure, but even if there's nothing available, the agent will probably commiserate and tell you, "That sucks".

TechCrunch

With the general absence of Internet there is a big delay in youth culture fads reaching Nunavut.

Vice

And a big delay means that power plants will not have to abide by new limits on the amount of toxins like arsenic, lead, and mercury they can dump into waterways until the midterms.

Vice

My best people watching happens when there is a lot of sitting around involved -- like in a doctor's office waiting room or at an airport gate (especially when there is a big delay).

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

This creates a bigger delay, and makes it harder to pinpoint articles that shouldn't be circulating.

Huffington Post

Remember that reload is a bigger delay on Wraith, if you are used to using fast-emptying guns like the carbine, and isn't required until your below about 50 rounds.

WikiHow

But in 2000 Congress added a provision allowing a worker to file for Social Security at 66, so his spouse could collect, and then "suspend" his own benefits, thereby earning a bigger delayed retirement check for himself and, very likely, his widow.

Forbes

That's a pretty big delay, whichever way you cut it.

TechCrunch

"It's good news because it means that you've missed an opportunity to have another big delay," he says.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a big delay", consider quantifying the delay (e.g., "a three-month delay") to provide more specific information to the reader.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the consequences of "a big delay" without providing supporting evidence or context. Clearly explain the specific repercussions to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a big delay" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a significant postponement or holdup. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is a valid and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a big delay" is a frequently used and grammatically sound phrase that describes a significant postponement or holdup. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across different contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, it serves to inform about delays in various projects and events. While being neutral in tone, it is important to consider more formal alternatives in professional settings. The phrase's impact should be clearly stated with supporting evidence to avoid exaggeration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a substantial postponement

Focuses on the act of postponing rather than the impact of the delay.

a significant setback

Emphasizes the negative impact of the delay on progress.

a considerable holdup

Highlights the impediment or obstacle causing the delay.

a lengthy interruption

Focuses on the duration and disruptive nature of the delay.

an extensive deferment

Suggests a more formal or official postponement.

a major rescheduling

Highlights the need to reorganize plans due to the delay.

a prolonged waiting period

Emphasizes the time spent waiting as a result of the delay.

a protracted lag

Implies a slow or gradual delay.

a sizeable moratorium

Indicates a temporary suspension or prohibition.

a tremendous setback

Highlights the significant negative impact of the delay on progress.

FAQs

How can I use "a big delay" in a sentence?

You can use "a big delay" to describe a significant postponement, such as "The project experienced "a big delay" due to unforeseen circumstances."

What are some alternatives to "a big delay"?

Alternatives to "a big delay" include "a substantial postponement", "a significant setback", or "a considerable holdup", depending on the context.

Is "a big delay" formal or informal?

"A big delay" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives might be preferred in professional settings.

What causes "a big delay"?

"A big delay" can be caused by various factors, such as unforeseen circumstances, technical difficulties, or logistical issues. The specific cause should be identified for clarity.