belated time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "belated time" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It is not a standard expression and may confuse readers, as "belated" typically refers to something that is late or delayed, while "time" is a general term that does not pair well with "belated." Example: "I apologize for the belated time in responding to your email."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

On Jan . 17thracously uptook the cause belated Time.

The New Yorker

"So this seems to me to be important," he said, "that at this belated time in life -- I'm past 80 years of age -- I focus on this".

The New York Times

Or to quote another tormented Lady -- Lady Macbeth, "Out, damned spot! out, I say!" In a misplaced attempt to quell international fervor against the United States legal system and their move to arrest Polanski at this belated time, the District Attorneys Officee attempted to demonstrate that a continuous pattern of action to apprehend Polanski has existed over the last thirty-one years.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

For a belated first-time visitor to Disney Concert Hall (which opened in 2003), the evening held other fascinations.

The New York Times - Arts

"Women and Literature: English and American Writers From the 18th Century to the Present" offers a behind-the-scenes look at writers who received recognition, often belated, at times when they were considered presumptuous for invading the ink-stained masculine world of the novel, poetry and history.

The New York Times - Books

The best home player on the pitch was Seamus Coleman, who was ignored for the Euro 2012 squad, and when another long-time snubee, Wes Hoolahan, was given a belated introduction at half-time he showed the cohesive midfield play that has so often been absent for Trap's pap.

The Guardian - Sport

This scattergun musical satire was very much of its time, but its belated rehabilitation is a cause for quiet celebration.

The Guardian - Music

Days later, the entire family moved into their newly finished apartment — "Just in time for my belated baby shower," Dr. Valentino, now 47, said.

The New York Times

I remember seeing it, at the time of its belated release about twenty years ago, in a second state, a true cinematic ecstasy.

The New Yorker

Congress's decision to free up more wireless spectrum to meet our growing demand and generate $25 billion in auction revenue is belated recognition that it's time to get serious about the needs of our entrepreneurs and innovators.

Forbes

This is made clear in the books's preface, which was written by the mature Shaw at the time of its belated publication.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using the phrase "belated time". Instead, opt for clearer and more grammatically correct alternatives such as "late hour" or "delayed moment".

Common error

Don't assume that "belated" can directly modify "time". "Belated" describes something that is late or delayed, and it's best used to modify actions or events, not the general concept of time. For example, use "belated birthday wishes" instead of "belated time for birthday wishes".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "belated time" functions as a noun phrase, though it's considered grammatically incorrect according to Ludwig AI. It attempts to describe a point in time that is delayed or late, but the construction is not standard English usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "belated time" is generally considered grammatically incorrect and is not a standard expression in English. Ludwig AI confirms this assessment, suggesting it may confuse readers. Although it appears in some news and media sources, it's best to avoid this phrase in formal or professional writing. Instead, use clearer and more accurate alternatives such as "late hour" or "delayed moment" to convey the intended meaning of lateness or delay. Pay attention to source authority, with the highest-quality sources weighted most heavily, and always prioritize grammatical correctness for clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

late hour

Replaces "belated" with "late" and focuses on the lateness of the hour.

delayed moment

Substitutes "belated" with "delayed" and "time" with "moment", emphasizing the delay.

tardy occasion

Replaces both words with synonyms focusing on the lateness of the event.

overdue period

Emphasizes that the time has passed its expected occurrence.

long-delayed time

Adds emphasis to the lateness of the time.

past the deadline

Focuses on missing a specific deadline.

at a late stage

Highlights the lateness in a process or development.

behind schedule

Indicates a delay in a planned timeline.

after the intended time

Clearly states that something is happening after its intended occurrence.

subsequent timing

Suggests that the timing occurred after another event.

FAQs

Is "belated time" grammatically correct?

No, "belated time" is generally considered grammatically incorrect. "Belated" is an adjective that describes something being late or delayed and it's best to pair it with an action, such as /s/belated+response or /s/belated+wishes.

What are some alternatives to "belated time"?

Instead of "belated time", consider using phrases like "late hour" or "delayed moment", depending on the context.

How can I use the word "belated" correctly in a sentence?

Use "belated" to describe something that is late, such as "belated birthday wishes" or "a belated apology". It's best to pair it with a specific event or action rather than the general concept of "time".

What is the difference between "belated" and "late"?

"Belated" emphasizes that something is later than expected or should have happened earlier. "Late" is a more general term. You can use "late" to describe something simply occurring after a scheduled time, while "belated" suggests a sense of delay or tardiness.