this late

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this late" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is most commonly used to indicate that something happened or occurred at a later time than expected. For example: "I didn't think I'd finish the report this late, but it's finally completed!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And this late?

The New Yorker

But this late?

The New York Times - Sports

Not even now, at this late time.

Independent

What contribution does this late arrival make?

The New York Times - Arts

It sometimes snows this late, right?

The New Yorker

On top of this, late returns increased.

The Economist

At this late stage, anything could happen.

The New Yorker

Do they always leave it this late?

The Guardian

But not this late October.

The New York Times - Sports

This late policy is enforced without exception.

Stanford University

Definitely peculiar for this late up there.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this late" to describe a stage in a process or project, ensure it logically connects to the progression being discussed.

Common error

Avoid using "this late" when a more specific time reference would provide clarity. Saying "it's "this late"" can be vague; instead, specify the actual time or the stage of the process to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this late" functions as an adverbial modifier, specifying the time or stage at which something occurs. Ludwig provides numerous examples where it modifies verbs or adjectives, indicating a sense of unexpectedness or lateness in the timing. It's often used to question or emphasize the timing of an event.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

24%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this late" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express that something is occurring later than expected or desired. According to Ludwig, it functions as an adverbial modifier, often conveying surprise or concern about the timing of events. It maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for diverse contexts, including news, science, and general conversation. To enhance clarity in writing, consider specifying the time or stage of a process rather than relying solely on "this late". Keep in mind Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is correct.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

so late in the day

Emphasizes that the lateness is relative to the end of a period, often implying missed opportunities.

at this hour

Focuses specifically on the current time being past the usual or appropriate time.

at this advanced stage

Highlights that the lateness is due to the progression of a process or situation.

at this final stage

Similar to "at this advanced stage", but suggests the end is very near.

at this point

More general; can refer to a late stage, but also any significant moment in a sequence of events.

at this eleventh hour

An idiomatic expression meaning the very last moment before it's too late.

so far down the line

Highlights the progression of a project or endeavor to a late stage.

at such a late juncture

Uses more formal language to indicate a critical point in time that is delayed.

at the tail end

Suggests something occurring towards the very end of a process or period.

at this twilight

Metaphorically describes the lateness in terms of the end of a period, often implying decline.

FAQs

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

You can use "this late" to indicate that something is happening later than expected or desired. For example: "I didn't expect to be working "this late" into the night." Or: "Is it safe to travel "this late"?"

What are some alternatives to "this late"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "at this hour", "so late in the day", or "at the eleventh hour" as alternatives to "this late".

Is it appropriate to use "this late" in formal writing?

While "this late" is grammatically correct, it leans towards a neutral or informal tone. In formal writing, consider more precise alternatives like "at this advanced stage" or "at this juncture".

What does "this late" imply in a conversation?

Using "this late" often implies surprise, concern, or mild disapproval about the timing of something. It suggests the speaker considers the time to be beyond the norm or ideal.