a bit behind schedule

USAGE SUMMARY

"a bit behind schedule" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that something is slightly behind in terms of its planned or expected timing. For example, "We are a bit behind schedule, but we still expect the project to be completed by the end of the month."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

I fell a bit behind schedule, obviously.

The Guardian

"They are a bit behind schedule but work is being done," he said.

The New York Times

But he had "a tough second half," and was a bit behind schedule.

The New Yorker

On this particular September morning, as he passed under the train bridge, Tozzoli was a bit behind schedule.

The New York Times - Magazine

Leaves are beginning to turn — they seem to be a bit behind schedule this year — but in the dank air and against the battleship skies, the yellows and reds are muted.

The New York Times

A bit behind schedule -- Mr. Arafat once hoped to be host to the pope here -- the partly opened hotel was the scene of a reception last month for Jiang Zemin, the president of China.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

During an interview here, Mr. Lagos recalled that when he first met George W. Bush more than a year ago, "he told me that we would have an agreement by December -- well, we're a little bit behind schedule".

The New York Times

Dempsey a bit behind Gomez up top.

The New York Times

I was a bit behind.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Like I said, I'm a bit behind.

Independent

So maybe I'm just a bit behind the times.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a bit behind schedule", be specific about the cause and potential impact of the delay. This provides context and helps manage expectations.

Common error

Avoid using "a bit behind schedule" when the delay is significant. Opt for phrases like "considerably delayed" or "significantly behind" to accurately reflect the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bit behind schedule" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, adjective, or another adverb. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage. It indicates the extent to which something is delayed in relation to a planned timeline.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a bit behind schedule" is a commonly used phrase to describe a slight delay in progress, as confirmed by Ludwig. It is grammatically correct and finds frequent application in various contexts, particularly in news, business, and scientific domains. While versatile, it is essential to ensure the degree of delay is accurately represented. Ludwig's analysis of authoritative sources and usage patterns confirms its widespread acceptance and practical utility in conveying mild delays. The phrase serves to manage expectations and provides context for adjustments to timelines.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Slightly delayed

Focuses on the delay itself, rather than the comparison to a schedule.

A little late

A more general way of saying something is not on time.

Running late

Implies movement or progress, but at a slower pace than expected.

Falling behind

Emphasizes the act of lagging in progress.

Not quite on time

A polite way of saying something is late.

Somewhat overdue

Highlights that a deadline has passed, but not by a significant amount.

Lagging slightly

Focuses on the slower pace of progress.

Off track

Indicates a deviation from the intended course or plan.

Behind the curve

Suggests being less advanced or up-to-date compared to others.

Behindhand

A more formal and less common way of saying behind schedule.

FAQs

What does "a bit behind schedule" mean?

It means that something is slightly delayed or not progressing as quickly as planned.

How can I use "a bit behind schedule" in a sentence?

You can say, "The project is "a bit behind schedule", but we expect to catch up soon."

What's a less formal way to say "a bit behind schedule"?

You could say something is "running late" or "a little late".

What are some more formal alternatives to "a bit behind schedule"?

Consider using phrases like "slightly delayed" or "somewhat overdue" in more formal contexts.