big delay

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "big delay" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant or considerable postponement in time, often in contexts related to travel, projects, or events. Example: "Due to unforeseen circumstances, there was a big delay in the flight schedule, causing many passengers to miss their connections."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Tech

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

"EXPECT BIG DELAY" reads the warning on electronic billboards on highways and streets from Bakersfield to San Diego.

The New York Times

There'll be a big delay while a couple of chaps mend the footholds at Kumar's end and the PA man is torturing us with Queen while they do it.

The Guardian - Sport

What's the problem and why the big delay here?

TechCrunch

That's a pretty big delay, whichever way you cut it.

TechCrunch

Nonetheless, the process tends to take large time and causes big delay in large-scale WSNs.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

"It's good news because it means that you've missed an opportunity to have another big delay," he says.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

In those states, nonresidents can face big delays if stopped for speeding and other moving violations.

The New York Times - Travel

Customers of the wedding present firm, which operates predominantly online, have already faced big delays in receiving their gifts.

The Guardian - Money

Customers of the wedding present firm, which operates predominantly online, had reported big delays in receiving their gifts.

The Guardian - Money

Contractors said they could complete work in time for trials in August 2003 only if there were no big delays.

The New York Times - Sports

There are small delays while connecting or disconnecting from a camera, and big delays whenever the camera or its subject moves.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about schedules or deadlines, use "big delay" to emphasize the severity and impact of being behind schedule. This phrase is particularly effective in news reports or project management updates.

Common error

Avoid using "big delay" in casual conversation where simpler terms like "late" or "held up" might suffice. The phrase carries a sense of formality that might feel out of place.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "big delay" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a significant postponement or holdup. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Tech

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "big delay" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a significant postponement. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its usability, particularly in contexts like news, science, and technology where conveying information about disruptions is crucial. While alternatives like "significant postponement" exist, "big delay" offers a more emphatic tone. When using this phrase, consider the audience and context to ensure the level of formality is appropriate. The frequency analysis further indicates its prevalence in mainstream media and scientific discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extended delay

Similar, but emphasizes the duration of the delay.

significant postponement

Emphasizes the act of postponing something important.

major holdup

Highlights an obstruction causing the delay.

substantial deferment

Focuses on the act of delaying something until a later time.

lengthy interruption

Stresses the extended nature of the pause.

severe disruption

Emphasizes the disorder and impact of the delay.

considerable setback

Implies that the delay negatively affects progress.

extensive lag

Emphasizes the time difference between two events.

prolonged wait

Highlights the experience of waiting for an extended period.

notable lateness

Focuses on the aspect of being late or behind schedule.

FAQs

How can I use "big delay" in a sentence?

You can use "big delay" to describe a significant postponement, such as, "Due to the storm, there was a "big delay" in flights."

What are some alternatives to "big delay"?

Alternatives include "significant postponement", "major holdup", or "extended delay" depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to say "big delay" or "significant delay"?

Both "big delay" and "significant delay" are correct, but "significant delay" might sound more formal and precise, whereas "big delay" adds emphasis.

What causes a "big delay"?

A "big delay" can be caused by various factors such as unforeseen circumstances, technical issues, or external events, leading to a substantial disruption in schedule.