are behind schedule

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are behind schedule" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a project or task is not progressing as planned and is delayed. Example: "Due to unforeseen circumstances, we regret to inform you that we are behind schedule on the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

If trains departing from Penn Station are behind schedule, he might take the PATH train to Hoboken and then connect with New Jersey Transit.

The New York Times

Many plans are behind schedule.

The New York Times - Science

Preparations for both votes are behind schedule.

The New York Times

However, while Poland appears on track, Ukraine's construction efforts are behind schedule.

The New York Times - Sports

It isn't true that we are behind schedule," Mr. Letta said at the opening.

The New York Times

Prospect Park renovations are behind schedule as the budget for the project thins.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

The shoot was behind schedule.

The New York Times

(2) It is behind schedule.

The Economist

"We're behind schedule as it is".

The New Yorker

SANTO LOQUASTO was behind schedule.

The New York Times - Arts

Fund-raising was behind schedule.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When reporting delays, follow "are behind schedule" with a brief explanation. This provides context and helps stakeholders understand the reason for the delay.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that something is behind schedule without providing any details. Offer a brief explanation or indicate when the project is expected to get back on track.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are behind schedule" functions as a descriptive phrase indicating that one or more entities or projects have not met the expected timelines or deadlines. According to Ludwig, this phrase is usable in written English, signaling that it's grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are behind schedule" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate that something is delayed or not progressing as planned. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is commonly found in news, business, and general contexts, serving to inform about delays. To improve clarity, it is recommended to provide context when using the phrase, avoiding generic statements. Alternatives include "are delayed" or ""are running late"". The phrase's neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are running late

Focuses on the immediate state of being delayed, often in terms of time.

are delayed

A more general term indicating that something is not happening on time.

are falling behind

Highlights the process of gradually becoming delayed.

are not on track

Emphasizes a deviation from the planned course or timeline.

are off schedule

Similar to "are behind schedule", but focuses on deviating from a pre-set plan.

are lagging

Implies slow progress relative to a target or expectation.

are overdue

Highlights that a deadline has already passed.

are slipping

Suggests a gradual decline in adherence to the schedule.

have missed the deadline

A more direct statement about not meeting a specific deadline.

are not meeting expectations

Focuses on the failure to achieve the desired results or progress.

FAQs

What does it mean to say that something is "are behind schedule"?

To say that something is "are behind schedule" means that it is delayed or not progressing at the expected pace. This typically refers to projects, tasks, or events that are not meeting their planned deadlines or milestones.

How to use "are behind schedule" in a sentence?

You can use "are behind schedule" to describe various situations, such as "The construction project "is behind schedule" due to weather delays" or "We "are running late" and "are behind schedule" on delivering the reports this quarter".

What can I say instead of "are behind schedule"?

You can use alternatives like "are delayed", ""are running late"", or "are not on track" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "are behind schedule" or "is behind schedule"?

"Are behind schedule" is used when referring to plural subjects (e.g., "The projects are behind schedule"), while "is behind schedule" is used with singular subjects (e.g., "The project is behind schedule").