excuse for the delay

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "excuse for the delay" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when providing a reason or justification for a delay in response or action. Example: "I apologize for the inconvenience; I have an excuse for the delay in my response due to unforeseen circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

What is Steinbrenner's excuse for the delay now?

The New York Times - Sports

There was no excuse for the Riots in Tottenham and there is no excuse for the delay of criminal prosecutions in the LIBOR scandal.

The Guardian - Business

"To be very blunt, there's just no excuse for the delay in applying standards that clearly should bar this kind of witch's brew," said Senator-elect Richard Blumenthal, Democrat of Connecticut, who as the state's attorney general has led a campaign against the drinks.

The New York Times

Of course, their excuse for the delay was "snow".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Marcia Robinson Lowry, a veteran litigator who has filed class action lawsuits aimed at reforming foster care systems around the country, and who leads a nonprofit law firm called A Better Childhood, said the pressures faced by child welfare officials are no excuse for the delays experienced by children and families.

Los Angeles Times

The author, who has given many excuses for the delay, including tempting travel freebies and distraction, once said he hoped to have the ASOIAF saga finished by 1998.

Independent

The 22-year-old actress — she's the younger sister of the child stars turned clothing designers Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen — had the most fashionable of excuses for the delay: Karl Lagerfeld.

The New York Times

The polite but evasive liaison keeps making excuses for the delay in issuing my press card.

Huffington Post

Young also pushed Nims to challenge excuses for the delay in the delivery of the cranes.

Huffington Post

After the promised payday came and went without checks, the Malagons joined hundreds of others at daylong services in which Mr. Bolaños thundered about threats to the project, made excuses for the delays and took up collections.

The New York Times

The party has offered two excuses for this delay: the political crisis in the party and the voluminous handover notes received from the Jonathan's transition team.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "excuse for the delay", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you are seeking an explanation, offering one, or dismissing a presented reason as inadequate. Being direct helps avoid misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "excuse for the delay" to deflect responsibility without providing a genuine explanation. This can come across as insincere and damage trust. If a delay occurred due to an oversight, acknowledging it directly is often more effective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "excuse for the delay" functions as a noun phrase, typically used to request or offer a justification for a postponement. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It sets up an expectation for an explanation.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "excuse for the delay" is a grammatically correct and understandable phrase used to solicit or offer a justification for a postponement. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Although its frequency is rare, it commonly appears in News & Media. Closely related alternatives include "reason for the delay" and "justification for the delay". When employing this phrase, clarity and honesty are crucial to avoid misinterpretations or damaging trust. The phrase is neutral in register, fitting for various scenarios without being overly formal or casual.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

explanation for the delay

Focuses on providing a clear account of the reason behind the delay, similar to seeking an excuse.

reason for the delay

A more neutral way of asking why something was delayed, without implying judgment.

the reason behind the delay

Similar to "reason for the delay" but more emphatic.

justification for the delay

Suggests a need to defend or legitimize the delay, implying possible criticism.

rationale for the delay

Implies a logical or systematic explanation for the delay.

source of the delay

Emphasizes identifying the origin or root cause of the delay.

excuse for being late

Similar but applies to situations involving a person's tardiness.

apology for the delay

An expression of regret for causing the delay.

what caused the delay

Focuses on identifying the specific cause or event leading to the delay.

what's the holdup

An informal way of asking why something is delayed, often implying impatience.

FAQs

What's a formal alternative to "excuse for the delay"?

In formal contexts, use phrases like "reason for the delay", "justification for the delay", or "rationale for the delay" for a more professional tone.

How do I politely ask for the "excuse for the delay"?

Politely inquire using phrases like, "Could you please provide the reason for the delay?" or "I was wondering if there's an explanation for the "delay"."

Is it correct to say "apology for the delay" instead of "excuse for the delay"?

"Apology for the delay" expresses remorse, while "excuse for the delay" seeks or provides a "reason" or justification. They serve different communicative purposes.

When is it inappropriate to ask for the "excuse for the delay"?

It may be inappropriate if the reason is already well-known or if pressing for an "excuse" would be insensitive, such as after a personal tragedy.