is running behind schedule

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is running 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 running behind schedule due to unexpected weather conditions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

The program is running behind schedule.

The Washington Post

1.10pm: The conference is running behind schedule.

The Guardian

The festival is running behind schedule and lacks coherence.

The Economist

The S.E.C., more than any other agency, is running behind schedule.

The New York Times

Now he is running behind schedule to see his own kids and is anxious that we make up time.

The Guardian

The cash-starved state government's plan to generate hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenue a year through video gambling is running behind schedule.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Beach rentals on the Jersey Shore are running behind schedule as families try to guess when the weather roulette will come up bright and shiny for them.

The New York Times

Here are the growing costs of the projects at the design and planning phase: And here are ones under construction: No, as the chart below shows, most of the projects under construction are running behind schedule as well as over budget.

The Guardian

However, Washington was running behind schedule as he had planned to attack and capture the British outposts before dawn and capture the garrison shortly afterward.

Wikipedia

GENEVA — Christoph Grainger-Herr was running behind schedule.

The New York Times

The event was running behind schedule.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is running behind schedule", be specific about what is delayed and, if possible, the reason for the delay. This provides clarity and context.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that something "is running behind schedule" without explaining what 'it' is or why. Always provide enough information for the reader to understand the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is running behind schedule" functions as a descriptive statement indicating that a particular event, project, or process is not progressing according to the planned timeline. It's a common way to express a delay or a failure to meet expectations. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

9%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

4%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is running behind schedule" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to indicate that something is delayed or not progressing as planned. As verified by Ludwig AI, this phrase is suitable for various contexts, with a neutral register making it versatile for news, business, or even informal communication. When using the phrase, provide specific context about what is delayed and why to ensure clear communication. Consider alternatives like "is delayed" or "is off track" for variety, and avoid overusing the phrase without sufficient information. The phrase is widely found in authoritative sources such as The New York Times, The Guardian and Forbes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is delayed

This alternative is a more concise and direct way to say something is not on time.

is falling behind

This alternative highlights the act of gradually becoming later than planned.

is not on time

This alternative is a straightforward and simple way to express lateness.

is lagging behind

This alternative is similar to 'falling behind' but can also imply a competitive aspect.

is behind target

This alternative emphasizes the failure to meet a specific goal or objective.

is off track

This alternative suggests a deviation from the planned course or direction.

is slipping

This alternative means that it's slowly getting more delayed or losing position.

is overdue

This alternative implies that something was expected earlier and is now late.

is behind the curve

This alternative suggests falling behind a trend or expected standard.

is progressing slowly

This alternative focuses on the speed of progress rather than the schedule itself.

FAQs

What does "is running behind schedule" mean?

The phrase "is running behind schedule" means that a planned activity, project, or event is progressing slower than anticipated and will likely not be completed by the original deadline.

What can I say instead of "is running behind schedule"?

You can use alternatives like "is delayed", "is off track", or "is not on time" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to say "is behind schedule" or "is running behind schedule"?

Both "is behind schedule" and "is running behind schedule" are grammatically correct and commonly used. The choice depends on personal preference, although "is running behind schedule" might slightly emphasize the ongoing nature of the delay.

How can I inform someone that a project is running behind schedule without sounding negative?

Focus on solutions and next steps. For instance, you could say, "The project "is delayed", but we're implementing strategies to catch up" or "We're addressing the challenges to ensure timely completion moving forward".