do not delay

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "do not delay" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in any situation where you want to encourage someone to take prompt action. For example, "Please do not delay in sending the documents - they are needed urgently."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Do not delay.

The New Yorker

Do not delay now.

Yale University

Do not delay on your return to Yale.

Yale University

Do not delay making the report in order to gather all of this information.

Harvard University

Do not delay submitting your AMCAS application solely because your MCAT scores will be available later in the summer.

Cornell University

The Telegraph's financial troubleshooter shares her secrets of making companies see things your way. 1. Do not delay.

The Telegraph

"Please do not delay," Iraq's deputy prime minister, Barham Salih, said in a blunt appeal to the gathering.

The New York Times

Do not delay -- to do so could result in physical injury.Continue on your way: the door will close by itself.

The New York Times

If you detect any change in vision, gradual or abrupt, do not delay a visit to an ophthalmologist.

The New York Times - Science

Developers sometimes cover trees and hedges to ensure that nesting birds do not delay their building plans.

The Times

Suggest a specific date by which you can let the employer know your decision, and then follow up as you indicated; do not delay by even a day.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "do not delay" in official communications, follow it with a clear explanation of the consequences of delaying. This adds weight to the instruction and motivates compliance.

Common error

While "do not delay" is grammatically sound, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Use more relaxed alternatives like "don't wait" or "act now" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "do not delay" functions as an imperative, used to issue a command or instruction. Ludwig examples show its utility in contexts requiring immediate action or attention, reinforcing its directive nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "do not delay" is a grammatically correct imperative used to strongly advise prompt action. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is widely used and understood in English. It appears most frequently in news, academic, and scientific contexts, indicating its relevance in situations requiring immediate attention. While its formality may not suit casual conversation, it serves as a powerful directive in critical communications. Consider using it when emphasizing the importance of timeliness, especially when outlining potential negative consequences of inaction.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

don't wait

A more informal and direct way of saying "do not delay".

act promptly

Emphasizes immediate action, removing the negative constraint of "do not".

take action immediately

Highlights both the need for action and the urgency of it.

proceed without hesitation

Focuses on removing any doubt or pause before acting.

move quickly

A simple and direct instruction to increase speed.

begin at once

Stresses the commencement of an action without any lapse in time.

start immediately

Similar to 'begin at once' but may imply a more structured or planned start.

make haste

An older, more formal expression urging quick action.

avoid procrastination

Emphasizes the avoidance of delaying tactics or putting things off.

expedite the process

Focuses on speeding up an existing process or task.

FAQs

How to use "do not delay" in a sentence?

Use "do not delay" to strongly advise someone to take immediate action. For example, "If you notice any changes in your vision, "do not delay" a visit to an ophthalmologist."

What can I say instead of "do not delay"?

You can use alternatives like "act promptly", "take action immediately", or "don't wait", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "do not delay"?

"Do not delay" is suitable in situations where immediate action is important, such as in emergencies, formal instructions, or urgent requests. Consider using more informal alternatives in casual settings.

What is the difference between "do not delay" and "do not hesitate"?

"Do not delay" advises against postponing an action, while "do not hesitate" encourages someone to act without doubt or reservation. For example, "Do not delay reporting any suspicious activity" focuses on time, whereas "Do not hesitate to ask if you have questions" focuses on confidence.