is behind schedule

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is behind schedule" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a project, task, or event is not progressing as planned and is delayed. Example: "The construction of the new building is behind schedule due to unexpected weather conditions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(2) It is behind schedule.

The Economist

The heart transplant program is behind schedule.

The New York Times

But the bone-drying process is behind schedule.

The New York Times - Arts

"The building of natural gas stations is behind schedule.

The New York Times

The electronic archive is behind schedule and over budget.

The New York Times

A music video he has been working on for months is behind schedule.

The New York Times - Magazine

But it is behind schedule in installing equipment and in training operators.

The Economist

This is despite sluggish growth and a deficit-reduction plan that is behind schedule.

The Economist

A plan to build several nuclear reactors by 2030 is behind schedule, for example.

The Economist

A government plan to install radiation monitors at ports and airports is behind schedule.

The New York Times

That is behind schedule, according to analysts, including Christopher Danely at JPMorgan Chase.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "is behind schedule", specify the reason for the delay to provide context and transparency.

Common error

Avoid using passive constructions that obscure responsibility for the delay. Instead of "The project is behind schedule", try "The team is behind schedule due to unforeseen challenges".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is behind schedule" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the state of a noun (project, task, etc.) as being delayed or not progressing according to the planned timeline. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Formal & Business

12%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is behind schedule" is a common and grammatically correct way to indicate that a project or activity is delayed. Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples shows its frequent use in news, business, and other contexts. The phrase functions as a predicate adjective, informing readers about unmet deadlines. While versatile, writers should be mindful of clarity and avoid passive constructions that obscure accountability for delays. Consider alternatives like ""is running late"" or ""is delayed"" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Understanding the context and potential causes will help you use the phrase effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is running late

This alternative directly implies a delay in meeting a deadline or appointment.

is delayed

A more general term indicating postponement or lateness.

is not on track

Suggests a deviation from the planned timeline or progress.

is falling behind

Emphasizes the act of progressively lagging in progress.

is overdue

Indicates that a deadline has already passed without completion.

is lagging

Implies a slower pace than required, resulting in a delay.

is not progressing as planned

A more formal way to state that something is not meeting its intended timeline.

is slipping

Suggests a gradual decline in adhering to the schedule.

has missed its deadline

Specifically points out the failure to meet a specific deadline.

is taking longer than expected

Highlights the extended duration compared to initial estimations.

FAQs

How can I use "is behind schedule" in a sentence?

You can use "is behind schedule" to indicate that a project, task, or event is delayed or not progressing as planned. For example, "The construction project "is behind schedule" due to weather conditions".

What are some alternatives to saying "is behind schedule"?

Alternatives include "is running late", "is delayed", or "is not on track", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "was behind schedule"?

Yes, "was behind schedule" is the past tense form and is grammatically correct when referring to a past situation. For example, "The project "was behind schedule" last month, but it's now back on track".

What's the difference between "is behind schedule" and "is ahead of schedule"?

"Is behind schedule" means something is delayed, while "is ahead of schedule" means something is progressing faster than planned. They are antonyms indicating opposite progress in relation to a timeline.