late start

USAGE SUMMARY

"late start" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where something began later than expected or planned. For example, "The meeting had a late start due to technical difficulties."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Why the late start?

The Guardian - Film

"We got off to a late start.

The New York Times - Sports

The late start as a writer?

The New Yorker

If I'm late, start without me".

The New Yorker

August 25th Late start today.

The New Yorker

It's, um, a very late start.

The Guardian

Said Dr. Bielory: "It's a late start.

The New York Times

What is with the late start times?

The Guardian - Sport

Sorry for the late start, Fifth Down readers.

The New York Times

Despite a late start, Gandolfini had a considerable filmography.

The New Yorker

Women had a late start in the profession.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "late start", clarify the reason for the delay to provide context and avoid confusion. For example, "The project experienced a "late start" due to unforeseen regulatory hurdles".

Common error

Avoid simply stating there was a "late start" without explaining the impact or consequences. Describe how the delay affected subsequent events or outcomes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "late start" functions primarily as a noun phrase that describes the beginning of an activity or event that occurred later than expected. Ludwig's examples show it modifying events, careers, or projects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "late start" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe something that begins later than expected. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it serves to convey information about a delayed commencement, and is found frequently in News & Media sources. When using "late start", it's best to provide context for the delay and avoid assuming the reader understands the implications. While the phrase itself is neutral, the surrounding narrative can influence whether it carries a positive or negative connotation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

delayed beginning

Focuses on the fact that the start was not on time, emphasizing the delay itself.

tardy commencement

Uses more formal vocabulary to convey the same meaning of a delayed start.

belated initiation

Emphasizes the action of initiating something that happened later than expected.

delayed launch

Specifically refers to the postponement of a launch, whether literal or figurative.

overdue beginning

Suggests the start was not only late but also past a deadline or expected time.

postponed start

Highlights that the start was intentionally delayed to a later time.

lagged start

Implies a start that is behind schedule or trailing others.

slow beginning

Indicates a start that is not only late but also progresses slowly.

protracted initiation

Suggests the start was unnecessarily lengthened or extended.

tardily initiated

Adverbial form emphasizing the lateness of the initiation.

FAQs

How can I use "late start" in a sentence?

You can use "late start" to describe anything that began later than expected. For example, "Despite the "late start", the team managed to complete the project on time".

What are some alternatives to "late start"?

You can use alternatives like "delayed beginning", "tardy commencement", or "belated initiation" depending on the context.

Is it always negative to have a "late start"?

Not necessarily. While a "late start" can indicate setbacks, it can also highlight resilience and the ability to overcome challenges. The connotation depends on the situation and the narrative around it.

What's the difference between "late start" and "slow start"?

"Late start" refers to the timing of the beginning, whereas "slow start" describes the pace or progress at the beginning. A project could have a "late start" but then progress quickly, or it could start on time but have a "slow start".