expect delays

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "expect delays" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are informing someone that they should anticipate interruptions or slower progress, often related to travel or project timelines. Example: "Due to the construction work on the highway, please expect delays during your commute."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

TIMING Expect delays.

The New York Times

Expect delays and congestion wherever you go.

The New York Times

"Passengers must expect delays of between one and two hours.

Independent

"We expect delays of no more than 10 minutes".

The Guardian - Opinion

In addition, commuters and travelers were warned to expect delays.

The New York Times

If you're flying in the coming days, expect delays.

The Guardian

Expect delays and infuriated businessmen and women who are tired and have very little patience.

Independent

Commuters have been warned to expect delays and disruption around east London.

The Guardian

Although the airport later reopened passengers were warned to expect delays and cancellations.

The Guardian

Travellers were warned to expect delays and cancellations for at least a week.

The Guardian

Analysts Inrix said drivers could expect delays of up to 90 minutes on peak routes.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In travel-related content, supplement "expect delays" with real-time updates and alternative routes or options to help readers navigate potential disruptions.

Common error

Avoid using "expect delays" without providing any context or details about the reason for the delays. Always include relevant information, such as the cause of the delay and its potential duration, to ensure clarity and manage expectations effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expect delays" functions as a directive or advisory expression. It serves to inform an audience about the likelihood of hold-ups or lateness in a given situation. According to Ludwig, this usage is considered correct and suitable for diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "expect delays" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression that serves to inform individuals about potential hold-ups or lateness. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts, primarily within news and media. Its function is advisory, preparing audiences for possible inconveniences. While the register is generally neutral, it maintains its efficacy in both formal and informal communication. Alternatives like "anticipate delays" offer a more formal tone. Remember to provide context and details when using "expect delays" to ensure clarity and manage expectations effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

anticipate delays

Replaces "expect" with a synonym, maintaining a formal tone.

anticipate some delays

Adds specificity to the type of delays expected.

prepare for delays

Shifts the focus to readiness for potential slowdowns.

be prepared for delays

Emphasizes readiness for disruptions.

look out for delays

Suggests vigilance in spotting possible impediments.

count on delays

Implies a strong likelihood of slowdowns occurring.

forewarn of delays

Highlights the act of giving advance notice about obstructions.

foresee delays

Focuses on the ability to predict potential lateness.

consider the possibility of delays

Suggests acknowledging the potential for slowdowns.

await delays

Conveys a sense of passively waiting for obstructions.

FAQs

How can I use "expect delays" in a sentence?

You can use "expect delays" to inform someone that there might be a hold-up or lateness in a process. For example, "Due to road construction, "expect delays" on the highway."

What is a more formal way to say "expect delays"?

A more formal alternative to "expect delays" is to use "anticipate delays". This phrase is suitable for business or academic contexts.

Which is correct, "expect delays" or "expect for delays"?

"Expect delays" is the correct and more common phrasing. "Expect for delays" is grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between ""expect delays"" and "potential delays"?

"Expect delays" implies that there is a high likelihood of delays occurring. "Potential delays" suggests that delays are possible but not certain.