this is overdue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is overdue" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is late or past the expected time for completion or delivery. Example: "I just wanted to remind you that this is overdue, and we need to address it as soon as possible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

This is overdue.

The New York Times

This is overdue and most welcome.

The Guardian

"This is overdue," said Les Funtleyder, an industry analyst at Miller Tabak.

The New York Times

"This is overdue but excellent news," said Suzanne Nossel, executive director of freedom of speech group PEN America.

The Guardian - Books

Hague's announcement last week that there would be an inquiry into this is overdue but extremely welcome.

The Guardian - Opinion

"So very clearly one of the things the new pope has to do, and this is overdue, is really reform the internal organisation and structure of the church, and I think we will begin to see that".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Has this been overdue?

BBC

A younger man had no real doubts but thought this was overdue.

BBC

"This legislation is overdue and will help families that are struggling in this harsh economy".

The New York Times

In many respects, this movement is overdue.

The New York Times - Magazine

An examination of this phenomenon is overdue.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is overdue" when you want to express that something should have already occurred or been completed, often implying a sense of urgency or mild criticism. For instance, "The payment for this invoice is overdue, please remit as soon as possible."

Common error

Avoid using "this is overdue" when you mean something is anticipated or expected soon. "Overdue" indicates lateness, not future occurrence. Instead of "This project is overdue to start", say "This project is about to start" or "This project is scheduled to begin soon".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is overdue" functions as an evaluative statement. It expresses a judgment that a particular action, event, or situation should have occurred earlier. According to Ludwig, this phrase indicates something is past the expected or appropriate time.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this is overdue" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase expressing that something should have happened sooner. Ludwig indicates the phrase is appropriate for a variety of writing needs. While generally neutral in tone, consider the context when choosing it. Common in news and business, its evaluative nature expresses urgency or mild disapproval about delays. Alternatives include "this should have happened sooner" or "it's about time". Be careful not to confuse "overdue" with "upcoming". Overall, it’s a useful phrase to keep in your writing arsenal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this should have happened sooner

Emphasizes the delay and necessity of the action, focusing on the missed opportunity.

this was long awaited

Highlights the anticipation and expectation surrounding the event or action.

this was a long time coming

Indicates that the event or action was predictable and inevitable, though delayed.

this is finally happening

Focuses on the present occurrence after a period of delay or anticipation.

this is much later than expected

Directly addresses the tardiness of the event or action compared to initial expectations.

the time for this has come

Highlights the appropriateness and necessity of the action at the current moment.

it's about time

An informal expression indicating impatience and the feeling that something should have happened earlier.

this has been pending for too long

Emphasizes the prolonged state of being unresolved or incomplete.

this is behind schedule

Indicates a deviation from the planned timeline or deadline.

this is a belated action

Acknowledges the lateness of the action, often implying an apology or justification.

FAQs

What does it mean when something is "overdue"?

When something is "overdue", it means that it should have happened, been completed, or been received before now. It implies that a deadline has passed or that there has been an unacceptable delay.

What are some alternatives to saying "this is overdue"?

You can use alternatives like "this should have happened sooner", "it's about time", or "this was long awaited" depending on the context.

Is "this is overdue" formal or informal?

"This is overdue" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, consider the specific situation and audience to ensure it's appropriate. In very formal settings, more direct language might be preferred.

How can I use "this is overdue" in a sentence?

You can use "this is overdue" to express that something should have happened earlier. For example, "The report submission is overdue, please submit it immediately" or "This update to the software is overdue; users have been waiting for months".