it is delayed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is delayed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is not on time or has been postponed. Example: "The train is scheduled to arrive at 3 PM, but it is delayed due to bad weather."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

If it is delayed to after the 2016 election awareness and support levels could drop.

The Guardian

Punishment, especially when it is delayed, is not a very effective deterrent.

The New Yorker

If it is delayed into the summer fighting season, the A.N.S.F. will be challenged".

The New York Times

But the task of repairing it grows harder the longer it is delayed.

The Economist

Legislation takes time, and the longer it is delayed, the more damage occurs.

The New York Times

The prime evacuation time is very critical for them, but it is delayed in practice by complex information transfer processes.

Safety Science

We both catch the 1245 to London but it is delayed so we miss our 2pm votes.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

It is delaying delivery of 15 others by four years.

The New York Times

But now it's delayed.

The Economist

It was delayed anyway.

The New York Times - Travel

Then it was delayed.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is delayed", ensure the context clearly indicates what "it" refers to, avoiding ambiguity for the reader. For clarity, consider rephrasing to specify the subject, such as "the flight is delayed" or "the project is delayed".

Common error

Avoid using "it is delayed" without a clear antecedent. Without context, the reader may not know what "it" refers to, leading to confusion. Always specify what is being delayed to maintain clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is delayed" functions as a statement indicating that something is not happening on schedule. Ludwig's examples showcase how it's used to describe postponements in various contexts, such as events, legislation, or even biological processes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is delayed" is a versatile phrase used to indicate that something is not happening on time. Grammatically correct and widely used, as Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in news, scientific reports, and general conversation. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what "it" refers to. Alternatives like "it is postponed" or "it is held up" can provide nuanced meanings depending on the context. By understanding its proper usage and potential pitfalls, you can effectively communicate delays in various situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is postponed

Indicates a formal deferment to a later time.

it is put off

Suggests a less formal postponement, often due to inconvenience.

it is held up

Implies an obstruction or hindrance causing the delay.

it is rescheduled

Specifically indicates that a new time has been set.

it is deferred

Suggests a delay to a future time, typically in a formal or official context.

it is adjourned

Used primarily in formal settings like meetings or legal proceedings.

it is on hold

Indicates a temporary pause or suspension.

it is on ice

Similar to "on hold" but often implies a longer or indefinite suspension.

it is suspended

Signifies a temporary cessation, often due to specific circumstances.

it is stagnated

Implies that progress has halted, leading to a delay in overall advancement.

FAQs

How can I use "it is delayed" in a sentence?

You can use "it is delayed" to indicate that something is not on time or has been postponed. For example: "The meeting is scheduled for 2 PM, but "it is delayed" due to unforeseen circumstances."

What are some alternatives to saying "it is delayed"?

Alternatives include phrases like "it is postponed", "it is put off", or "it is held up", depending on the specific context and reason for the delay.

Is it better to say "it is delayed" or "it has been delayed"?

Both "it is delayed" and "it has been delayed" are grammatically correct. "It is delayed" implies a present state, while "it has been delayed" emphasizes that the delay occurred in the past and continues to the present. Choose the phrasing that best fits the nuance you wish to convey.

Which is correct, "the event it is delayed" or "the event is delayed"?

"The event is delayed" is the correct and more concise phrasing. "The event it is delayed" is grammatically incorrect and redundant.