a slight delay

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a slight delay" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a minor postponement or holdup in a process or schedule. Example: "Due to unforeseen circumstances, there will be a slight delay in the delivery of your order."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

However, it was subsequently announced that operations would be subject to a slight delay.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

"It's a slight delay," he said.

The New York Times

There was, however, a slight delay.

The New York Times

There was a slight delay.

The New Yorker

It looked out and there's a slight delay.

The Guardian - Sport

And, after a slight delay, the author finally responds.

The New Yorker

Note: You may experience a slight delay for the Calendar pop up.

Stanford University

The major notes stride forward after a slight delay, as the wine descends down the palate.

The New Yorker

I'm going to have to restart my browser - apologies if there follows a slight delay.

The Guardian - Sport

In some areas the cuts will be brought in straightaway; in others with a slight delay.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

With a slight delay, the stream of Pegida marchers squeezes past.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a slight delay", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being delayed and the anticipated impact of the delay on the overall process or schedule. For example, provide an estimated duration or explain the reason for the delay to manage expectations.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the consequences of "a slight delay". Using dramatic language when the delay is minor can undermine your credibility. Be transparent and factual about the reason for and extent of the delay.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a slight delay" functions as a noun phrase. It typically serves as a subject complement or an object, describing a minor postponement or holdup. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and widespread use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a slight delay" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase to describe a minor postponement. As Ludwig AI confirms, its acceptability and frequency across various sources, including News & Media, Science, and Academia, are high. When using the phrase, be sure to provide adequate context to manage expectations effectively. While alternatives like "minor setback" or "small postponement" exist, "a slight delay" remains a clear and widely understood way to communicate such a situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a small postponement

Substitutes "slight" with "small" and "delay" with "postponement", both near synonyms.

a minor setback

Replaces "delay" with "setback", focusing on the hindrance aspect.

a marginal holdup

Uses "marginal" to emphasize the small impact of the holdup.

a temporary deferment

Replaces "delay" with "deferment", stressing the temporary nature.

a brief interruption

Changes the focus to the interruption aspect, implying a short halt.

a short-term disruption

Focuses on the disruption aspect and its limited duration.

a momentary pause

Highlights the briefness of the delay using "momentary" and "pause".

a fractional lag

Uses "fractional" to convey the small amount and "lag" as a synonym for delay.

a minimal waiting period

Emphasizes the minimal nature of the wait caused by the delay.

a passing hiccup

Characterizes the delay as a minor and transient problem using the term "hiccup".

FAQs

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

You can use "a slight delay" to indicate a minor postponement. For example: "There will be "a slight delay" in the start of the meeting due to technical difficulties".

What's the difference between "a slight delay" and "a significant delay"?

"A slight delay" indicates a minor postponement, whereas "a significant delay" implies a more substantial and impactful holdup. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the extent of the delay.

What can I say instead of "a slight delay"?

You can use alternatives like "minor setback", "small postponement", or "brief interruption" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a slight delay" or should I use another phrase?

The phrase "a slight delay" is perfectly correct and commonly used to describe a minor postponement or holdup. There are no grammatical issues with this phrase.