heavy delay

USAGE SUMMARY

"heavy delay" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe a situation where something is taking significantly longer than expected. For example, "Unfortunately, we're facing a heavy delay on the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Because of a lot of packets losses or heavy delay.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

As shown in Eq. (11), noise estimation based on VAD can cause heavy delay, especially when speech exists for a long time, because it is only updated when speech is absent.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

It begins with a low note played on an electric guitar with heavy delay and distortion.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

La Guardia and Newark airports are experiencing heavy delays.

The Guardian

"If there are heavy delays, it's the 'what now' moment for motorists," Mr. Gorman said.

The New York Times

There are still reasonably heavy delays back to Chain Bridge Road, so expect a slow trek through this stretch.

The Washington Post

Due to the stable operation of a heavy delayed and disturbed process a significant optimization of operational performance was achieved.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

A police spokesman said that several bus routes would be disrupted and that drivers should expect heavy delays most of the day, especially in Midtown.

The New York Times

Thousands of commuters into New York City confronted another round of potentially heavy delays on the Long Island Rail Road on Tuesday morning, a day after an electrical short in a pair of cables sparked a fire in a control tower, causing an almost total shutdown of train traffic for part of the day.

The New York Times

Travel problems include the following: Virgin Trains is warning all services are subject to heavy delays, diversions and cancellations.

BBC

As a result, consumers and business users will face heavy delays in being able to get their hands on a product, as well as poor data security.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "heavy delay", consider the context. It implies more than just a simple delay; it suggests a substantial impact or duration. Choose synonyms if a lighter term is more appropriate.

Common error

Don't use "heavy delay" for minor setbacks. This phrase suggests a considerable disruption, so use lighter terms like "slight delay" or "minor setback" for less severe situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "heavy delay" functions as a noun phrase, where "heavy" modifies the noun "delay". It describes the magnitude or impact of the delay. Ludwig shows that the phrase is often used in contexts relating to disruptions and postponements.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "heavy delay" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a substantial postponement or disruption. While Ludwig identifies it as relatively rare in occurrence, it's deemed correct and usable. Its function is to emphasize the magnitude of a delay, and it finds application across neutral registers. When writing, consider whether the term accurately reflects the severity of the delay, opting for alternatives like "significant delay" in more formal contexts or for greater precision. Ultimately, effective communication involves nuanced word choices that accurately convey meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant delay

Emphasizes the importance or size of the delay.

substantial delay

Highlights the considerable extent of the delay.

major holdup

Uses a more informal term to describe a significant obstacle causing delay.

extensive postponement

Focuses on the act of delaying and its broad impact.

severe setback

Indicates a more negative impact, implying a reversal in progress.

lengthy interruption

Highlights the duration of the delay and its disruptive nature.

considerable wait

Focuses on the waiting time caused by the delay.

prolonged deferment

Emphasizes the extended nature of the postponement.

critical impediment

Stresses the hindering effect and its importance.

serious disruption

Highlights the chaotic effect caused by the delay.

FAQs

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

You can use "heavy delay" to describe situations with significant postponement, such as "The project is experiencing a "heavy delay" due to unforeseen circumstances".

What are some alternatives to "heavy delay"?

Alternatives include "significant delay", "substantial delay", or "major holdup", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is "heavy delay" too informal for professional writing?

While generally acceptable, "heavy delay" might be perceived as less formal. Consider using alternatives like "significant delay" or "extensive postponement" in formal documents.

What causes a "heavy delay"?

A "heavy delay" can be caused by various factors such as unforeseen circumstances, technical issues, or resource constraints. It implies a substantial disruption to the original timeline.