may cause delay

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'may cause delay' is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase can be used to express the potential for something to cause a delay. For example, "The heavy traffic on the interstate may cause delay in arriving at our destination."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

But despite the fact that the plans are scheduled for announcement today (the terrorist incidents may cause delay), they are being refined because of a collective discussion.

The Guardian - Opinion

Long handover procedure may cause delay in data communication that leads to service disruption.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Especially in the industrial environments, the speed of data processing and data transmitting is an important index, which may cause delay and errors in the production process.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Unsuitable strategy may cause delay and congestion, with a deterioration of the services experienced by the customers and a consequent loss of market share.

EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing

The main problem with the non-directional routing protocols is the routing loop formation while routing the packet, which may cause delay [10].

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

For instance, however, the file document to be uploaded is considerably large, conversion process may take a lot of time, and this may cause delay on the meeting proceedings.

Human-centric Computing and Information Sciences

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Even then appeals may cause delays.

The Economist

Inaccurate or incomplete answers may cause delays in the processing of your financial aid.

Harvard University

I welcome vigorous security efforts that increase air travel safety, even though some may cause delays or other inconvenience.

The New York Times

But it may cause delays in reaching directory assistance, in operator-assisted calls and in service repairs.

The New York Times

"Hatoyama's resignation may cause delays in the scheduled releases this month of the government's growth strategies and fiscal discipline targets," said Hirokata Kusaba, an economist at Mizuho Research Institute.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "may cause delay", consider the audience and context. In formal settings, acknowledge potential delays and offer solutions or contingency plans.

Common error

Avoid generic use of "may cause delay" without specifying the cause or impact. Provide details about what might lead to the delay and its potential consequences for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may cause delay" functions as a hedge, indicating a potential consequence without stating it as a certainty. It suggests a possibility of something leading to a postponement or hindrance, and is used to express uncertainty, mirroring how Ludwig AI describes the examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

62%

News & Media

23%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "may cause delay" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express a possible postponement or hindrance. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's acceptable for use in written English. Its frequency is classified as common, with prevalent usage in scientific and news media contexts. When employing the phrase, be mindful to provide specific context regarding the potential cause and impact of the delay. Consider related phrases like "could lead to postponement" or "might result in deferral" for nuanced expression. While widely accepted, avoid generic usage and specify the potential cause and impact of the delay.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could lead to postponement

Focuses on the potential result being a formal rescheduling or moving back of an event.

might result in deferral

Emphasizes the possibility of officially putting something off to a later time.

can create a setback

Highlights the potential for a reversal or impediment in progress.

could generate a holdup

Suggests the potential for something to be stopped or impeded.

might bring about a slowdown

Implies a reduction in pace or progress, rather than a complete stop.

can induce lateness

Specifically refers to the possibility of not being on time.

could precipitate a standstill

Suggests a situation where progress comes to a complete halt.

might occasion a stoppage

Focuses on the possibility of an interruption or cessation.

can give rise to obstruction

Highlights the potential for creating a barrier or impediment.

could foster tardiness

Implies promoting or encouraging a state of being late.

FAQs

How can I use "may cause delay" in a sentence?

Use "may cause delay" to indicate a possibility of postponement or hindrance. For example, "Unexpected traffic "may cause delay" in your arrival."

What phrases are similar to "may cause delay"?

Alternatives include "could lead to postponement", "might result in deferral", or "can create a setback" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "may cause a delay" or "may cause delay"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "may cause a delay" is more common and stylistically preferred as it includes the article "a" before the noun "delay". Consider context but aim to use "may cause a delay" for enhanced clarity.

What are some typical causes that "may cause delay"?

Typical causes include factors such as "technical issues", "unexpected circumstances", "inclement weather" or "unforeseen complications". The specific context will determine the most appropriate cause.