major delay

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "major delay" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a significant stoppage or setback in a given event or process. For example, "Construction on the new bridge suffered a major delay due to flooding in the area."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

The major delay in implementing these bans is a victory for the chemical industry.

Yale University

This has caused a major delay, which as far as the chemical industry is concerned is a victory.

Yale University

The request was the second major delay for the drug; in February, the F.D.A. asked for more time to consider the application.

The New York Times - Health

The last time such a major delay happened, after an IT glitch in June 2012, UK regulators hit the bank with a fine of £56 million.

Independent

Does Israel have the ability to cause severe damage to Iran's nuclear sites and bring about a major delay in the Iranian nuclear project?

The New York Times - Magazine

Simulated case study using Vissim simulation with different of width median opening showed in narrow width median opening will make major delay and the high of travel time.

Procedia Engineering

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

Roads: No major delays.

The New York Times

Expect major delays.

The Washington Post

It created major delays for riders.

The Washington Post

Sergeant Rehmann said that there were no major delays.

The New York Times

* No injuries were reported but major delays continue.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the cause of a "major delay", be specific about the factors involved to provide clarity and context. For example, instead of saying "There was a major delay", specify "The project experienced a "major delay" due to unforeseen supply chain disruptions".

Common error

Avoid using "major delay" as a standalone statement without providing context. Always specify what is being delayed and, if possible, the reason for the delay to enhance the reader's understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "major delay" functions as a noun phrase acting as a subject or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is perfectly usable in written English to describe significant postponements or setbacks. Examples show its use in various contexts, such as construction projects and medical treatments.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Science

29%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

6%

Unknown/unmatched sources

16%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "major delay" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote a significant setback or postponement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for a wide array of contexts, including academic, scientific, and news-related content. When using "major delay", be sure to provide specific details about the situation, explaining what is being delayed and why, to maximize clarity and impact. Remember to consider alternatives such as "significant setback" or "considerable holdup" for variety in your writing. By considering these aspects, you can effectively communicate the impact and implications of any "major delay".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant setback

Emphasizes the negative impact of the delay on progress.

considerable holdup

Highlights the aspect of being stopped or impeded.

substantial postponement

Focuses on the action of delaying to a later time.

extensive deferment

Implies a formal or official delay, often in legal or administrative contexts.

critical impediment

Stresses the hindering aspect and the severity of the obstacle.

serious disruption

Highlights the disturbance and interruption caused by the delay.

grave obstruction

Emphasizes the blockage and its severe consequences.

prolonged suspension

Focuses on the extended duration of the interruption.

material slowing

Highlights that the delay is noticeable and has an impact.

notable setback

Emphasizes that the delay is significant and worth noting.

FAQs

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

You can use "major delay" to describe a significant postponement or setback in a process, event, or project. For example, "The construction of the new highway experienced a "major delay" due to unexpected weather conditions."

What can I say instead of "major delay"?

You can use alternatives like "significant setback", "considerable holdup", or "substantial postponement" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a major delaying" instead of "major delay"?

While "delaying" can be used as an adjective, "major delay" is the more common and natural phrasing when referring to a significant postponement. "Major delaying" is less idiomatic.

What's the difference between "major delay" and "minor delay"?

"Major delay" indicates a significant and impactful postponement, while "minor delay" suggests a slight and less consequential hold-up.