under threat of delay

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "under threat of delay" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation where there is a possibility of a delay occurring, often in a formal or legal context. Example: "The project will proceed under threat of delay if the necessary approvals are not obtained by the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

To offer a special 15th-century version of the Kaddish, a prayer for the dead that was once forbidden under threat of death and was delayed for 320 years.

The New York Times

But the condemned do not live under threat of imminent execution; the long delays give the lie to that claim.

The New York Times

The Japanese refused, and the threat of delay grew.

The New Yorker

"Best commercial efforts" would enable ICANN to prevail on NSI to make these modifications to the SRS under threat of a lawsuit--if indeed delays were due to foot-dragging.

Harvard University

However, delayed payments have placed PPS under threat of collapse, which could lead to major challenges in procuring affordable ARVs when donor funds are no longer available.

Global health, science and practice

They now live under threat of demolition.

Independent

We were under threat of a takeover.

The Guardian - Opinion

The firm is under threat of yet another rating downgrade.

The Economist

Negotiating under threat of economic calamity is untenable.

The New York Times

Google ultimately provided the information requested under threat of subpoena.

The New York Times

Are artists who carry paintbrushes under threat of interrogation?

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "under threat of delay" when you want to emphasize the potential negative consequences of inaction or non-compliance. It is particularly effective in formal writing and legal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "under threat of delay" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "might be delayed" or "could be postponed" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under threat of delay" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun or clause, indicating a conditional risk. It expresses the possibility that a delay will occur if certain conditions are not met. Based on Ludwig AI analysis it follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Science

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "under threat of delay" is a grammatically correct expression used to indicate a risk or possibility of postponement. Although Ludwig AI analysis suggests its grammatical correctness and the phrase appears in various reputable sources, its frequency of use is limited. It's best suited for formal writing and professional contexts, where emphasizing potential negative consequences is desired. Alternatives include "at risk of delay" or "facing potential delays", which might be more appropriate for informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

risk of delay

A shorter, more direct version of 'at risk of delay'.

at risk of postponement

Replaces "threat" with "risk" and "delay" with "postponement", implying a similar sense of potential delay.

liable to be delayed

Indicates a probability of delay, focusing on the potential outcome.

in danger of being postponed

Similar to "under threat of delay" but uses "danger" instead of "threat", suggesting a slightly higher level of concern.

facing the possibility of delay

Highlights the element of possibility associated with a delay.

facing potential delays

Focuses on the act of confronting possible delays, rather than the threat itself.

potentially delayed

A more concise way of saying that something might be delayed.

with a looming possibility of delay

Emphasizes the impending nature of a potential delay.

subject to possible postponement

Indicates that the delay depends on external factors or conditions.

may face delays

A simple and direct way of saying that delays are possible.

FAQs

What does "under threat of delay" mean?

It means there is a risk or possibility that something will be postponed or delayed if certain conditions are not met or actions are not taken.

How can I use "under threat of delay" in a sentence?

Example: "The project is "under threat of delay" if the necessary funding is not secured by next week."

What are some alternatives to "under threat of delay"?

You can use alternatives like "at risk of delay", "liable to be delayed", or "facing potential delays" depending on the context.

Is "under threat of delay" formal or informal?

It's generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for professional or legal contexts. Simpler alternatives are better for informal situations.