behind schedule

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "behind schedule" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that a task, project, or event has not been completed or is progressing more slowly than planned. For example: We are behind schedule on completing the report, so we need to work extra hard this weekend to make up for lost time.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That plant is running well over budget and behind schedule.

The New York Times

The majority, EY found, are over budget and behind schedule.

The Economist

That project is running well over budget and behind schedule.

The New York Times

I'm really behind schedule.

Vice

"Everything's behind schedule.

Huffington Post

The plane landed 45 minutes behind schedule.

Huffington Post

behind schedule.

The New Yorker

And behind schedule.

The New York Times

Projects lagged behind schedule.

The New Yorker

The shoot was behind schedule.

The New York Times

(2) It is behind schedule.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "behind schedule", clearly state the original deadline or expected timeline to provide context. For example, instead of saying "The project is behind schedule", specify "The project is two weeks behind schedule compared to the original plan".

Common error

Avoid using "behind schedule" interchangeably with phrases like "over budget" when referring to project management. While related, one indicates a delay in time, and the other indicates exceeding financial resources. Be precise with your language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "behind schedule" primarily functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It indicates a state of not meeting a pre-set timeline or expected progress. As Ludwig AI explains, it's commonly used to describe projects or tasks.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

4%

Social Media

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "behind schedule" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that a task, project, or event is not progressing according to the planned timeline. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use. It's suitable for various contexts, ranging from news reports and scientific publications to professional communications. While alternatives like "off track" or "running late" exist, each carries slightly different connotations. When using this phrase, clarity is key, and providing specific details about the extent of the delay is recommended. This ensures that the message is clear and actionable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

off schedule

Indicates a deviation from the set timetable.

behind on time

Similar to "behind schedule" but places more emphasis on the time aspect.

running late

Focuses on the act of being late, often in a more general or less formal context.

falling behind

Emphasizes the process of gradually lagging rather than a fixed state.

off track

Suggests a deviation from the planned course or direction.

delayed

A more general term for being held up or postponed.

lagging

Highlights a slower pace compared to the expected or required speed.

not on time

A direct and simple way of stating that something is not happening when it should.

overdue

Indicates that something should have been completed or submitted by a certain time.

slower than expected

Focuses on the speed of progress rather than the overall timeline.

FAQs

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

You can use "behind schedule" to indicate that a task, project, or event is progressing slower than planned. For instance, "The construction of the new bridge is currently "behind schedule" due to unforeseen weather conditions".

What are some alternative phrases to "behind schedule"?

Alternatives include "running late", "falling behind", or "off track", each offering slight differences in emphasis.

Is it better to say "behind schedule" or "behind the schedule"?

"Behind schedule" is generally preferred and more common. "Behind the schedule" is grammatically correct but less frequently used. The simpler phrasing is usually clearer and more concise.

What's the difference between "behind schedule" and "overdue"?

"Behind schedule" implies a continuing project that hasn't met its intermediate goals, while "overdue" usually indicates that a final deadline has passed. For example, a library book is "overdue", but a construction project can be "behind schedule".