The phrase "action was late" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where an action or response occurred later than expected or required.
Example: "The action was late, causing delays in the project timeline."
Alternatives: "the response was delayed" or "the action was postponed."
Independent economists said that the Chinese government's actions were late and probably inadequate to contain rampant speculation that is starting to feed inflation, including rising prices for some goods imported by the United States.
A last-minute cable to the CIA to delay action was too late: the conspirators kidnapped and killed Chile's pro- democracy Armed Forces Chief, Rene Schneider.
As many as half had previously been brought to the attention of protection authorities, but action was too late or too little.
The action was the latest twist in President Bush's off-again-on-again commitment to free trade.
The action was the latest in an increasingly heated battle over the conditions of Mr. Gotti's detention while he awaits trial.
The court action was the latest development in a highly unusual Japanese takeover battle that promises to stir up the clubby banking industry.
Today's action was the latest in a series of temporary efforts by the commission to address California's chaotic electricity market.
The action was the latest piece of President Obama's push to normalize relations between Cuba and the United States after more than half a century of hostility.
The ill-considered police action was the latest in a string of attempts by Rajoy's weak, minority government to block the push for independence.
The action was the latest in a series by Mr. Obama to claim the ideological center, and in particular to signal to businesses that he wants to work more closely with them on policies that could help create jobs.
