a deferment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a deferment" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a postponement or delay of an obligation, such as a payment or duty. Example: "Due to unforeseen circumstances, I have requested a deferment of my loan payment until next month."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They earn a man a deferment for a year.

The New Yorker

How much interest will accrue if I take a deferment?

Yale University

Mr. Mardo had a deferment, having lost vision in one eye from a childhood virus.

The New York Times

After graduating in 1968, he received a deferment to attend Syracuse University College of Law.

The New York Times

I.B.M. applied for a deferment for me twice but the application failed.

The New York Times

Some tried every trick in the book to get a deferment, including submitting false statements.

The New Yorker

Such a deferment would have helped me immensely in March 2015.

The New York Times

He went to war in 1939, getting hurt in Poland, while Wieland was given a deferment for his genius.

The Economist

Polgar was denied a deferment for her pregnancy and lost the title when she refused to comply with match conditions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

If you do not qualify for a deferment, you may still be given forbearance.

University of California, Berkeley

If you do not qualify for a deferment, you may still be able to get forbearance.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When requesting or granting "a deferment", clearly specify the duration and conditions to avoid misunderstandings. For instance, state the exact period for which the obligation is postponed.

Common error

Don't assume that "a deferment" and forbearance are interchangeable. "A deferment" often has specific eligibility requirements, while forbearance may be granted more broadly but could accrue interest during the period of non-payment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a deferment" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It refers to the act of postponing or delaying something, typically an obligation or duty. As Ludwig AI points out, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

37%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Science

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a deferment" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that signifies the temporary postponement of an obligation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. It commonly appears in news and academic contexts, denoting delays in areas like loan repayments, military service, and legal proceedings. While alternatives like "a postponement" or "a delay" exist, "a deferment" often carries a more formal connotation. When using this phrase, clearly define the terms and duration to avoid confusion, and be mindful of the potential for interest accrual during the deferment period.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a postponement

Focuses on delaying an event or action to a later time.

a delay

Implies a temporary suspension or slowing down of something.

an extension

Highlights the act of prolonging the duration or deadline of something.

a suspension

Suggests a temporary interruption or cessation of something.

a moratorium

Indicates a formal prohibition or suspension of an activity.

a reprieve

Implies a temporary relief or postponement of a negative situation.

a grace period

Refers to a period beyond a deadline during which a penalty is waived.

a rescheduling

Specifically denotes changing the date or time of an event or appointment.

a continuance

Highlights the act of adjourning a legal proceeding to a future date.

a recess

A temporary break or pause in an activity or proceeding.

FAQs

How can I use "a deferment" in a sentence?

"A deferment" is used to indicate a temporary postponement. For example, "He requested "a deferment" on his student loan payments due to economic hardship".

What's the difference between "a deferment" and "a postponement"?

While both terms indicate a delay, "a deferment" often implies a formal or officially sanctioned delay, especially in obligations like loans or military service, while "a postponement" is a more general term for delaying any event or action.

What can I say instead of "a deferment"?

You can use alternatives like "a postponement", "a delay", or "an extension", depending on the context.

Is it always beneficial to request "a deferment" on student loans?

Not necessarily. While "a deferment" can provide temporary relief, interest may still accrue during the deferment period, increasing the overall loan balance. Consider the terms and conditions carefully before requesting one.