belated answer

USAGE SUMMARY

"belated answer" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe an answer which arrives or is given late, after the expected timeframe. Example: After much delay, I finally sent my belated answer to the job application.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Is she Sprint's ultra belated answer to T-Mobile's luscious ex-spokesbeauty?

TechCrunch

31, 1958, America's belated answer to the Sputnik challenge.

The New York Times - Books

If not, the High Line could one day become nothing more than Manhattan's belated answer to the historic theme park -- a grotesque urban mall on stilts.

The New York Times - Arts

It seems that Consuelo's belated answer has come with the publication of a long-forgotten manuscript - now published as The Rose's Memoir - giving her view of the 13-year marriage.

The Guardian - Books

This project was his belated answer to Freud's "Interpretation of Dreams," which had also presented itself as the account of a heroic self-analytical descent into the maelstrom of the unconscious.

The New York Times - Arts

Perhaps they will take heart from today's news about Weisberg, which provides a belated answer to the question Quinn posed so imperiously in her 1991 letter: "Who is this Jacob Weisberg, anyway?" He's the editor of Slate, and also the editor of a current book (George W. Bushisms), published by none other than Simon & Schuster.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Although Obama answered a list of questions posed by leading figures in American science two weeks earlier, McCain's supporters will hope that his belated response can answer some of his critics.

The Guardian

It was a troublingly belated response.

The New Yorker

When Bush, on Thursday, prefaced his belated definitive answer with a sighing, snappish "If we're all supposed to answer hypotheticals," the effect was unpleasant.

The New Yorker

In certain extreme cases, it may be felt that belated demand is being answered by the wrong kind of supply.

The Guardian - Books

A belated thank you for your lengthy answer at 128 (previous topic) about how Canadian polls are bad and Australian ones good.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "belated answer" when you want to emphasize that the response was delayed but is now being provided. It's suitable when the timing of the answer is relevant to the context.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "belated answer" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "late answer" or "delayed reply" when communicating informally.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "belated answer" functions primarily as a noun phrase where the adjective "belated" modifies the noun "answer". It identifies a response that has been delayed or has come later than expected. Ludwig AI identifies it as a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Arts

15%

Books

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "belated answer" is a grammatically correct and understandable way to describe a response that has been delayed. According to Ludwig, it is frequently found in news and media contexts. While acceptable, it's important to consider the formality of your communication; in casual settings, simpler alternatives like "late answer" might be preferable. Use "belated answer" when you want to emphasize the timing of the response and acknowledge the delay. Be mindful of potential overuse in informal conversations. Ludwig AI confirms the validity and usability of this phrase in written English, suggesting its appropriate use across various contexts where a delayed response is being addressed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Delayed response

Focuses on the lateness of the response itself.

Tardy reply

Emphasizes the delay and potential inappropriateness of the late reply.

Late answer

A simpler, more direct way of saying "belated answer".

Overdue response

Implies that the response was expected earlier and is now past its deadline.

Belated reply

A direct synonym using a different noun.

Response after a delay

Breaks down the phrase to highlight the sequence of events.

Answer given late

Similar to "response after a delay", focusing on the act of answering at a later time.

Tardily answered

Uses an adverb to describe the action of answering.

A response coming late

Highlights the arrival of the response at a later time.

Long-awaited answer

Emphasizes the anticipation and expectation preceding the answer.

FAQs

How can I use "belated answer" in a sentence?

You can use "belated answer" to describe a response that came later than expected. For example, "The company issued a "belated answer" to the customer's complaint."

What can I say instead of "belated answer"?

Alternatives to "belated answer" include "delayed response", "late answer", or "overdue response", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "belated answer" and "delayed answer"?

While both refer to answers given late, "belated answer" often carries a slightly more formal tone and can imply a greater sense of lateness or significance than "delayed answer".

When is it appropriate to use "belated answer" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "belated answer" in formal writing, news articles, or when the timing of the response is a key element of the information you are conveying. In more casual settings, simpler alternatives might be more suitable.