untimely reply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "untimely reply" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a response that is delayed or not given within an expected timeframe. Example: "I apologize for my untimely reply; I was caught up with other commitments."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

"In reply to Mr Tterve, maybe the Schlecks aversion to dangerous descents has something to do with Wouter Weylandts untimely death in the Giro?" writes Matthew Lysaght.

The Guardian - Sport

Untimely passing.

The New York Times

They committed untimely penalties.

The New York Times - Sports

"It was just untimely.

The New York Times

Teixeira's untimely miscues did.

The New York Times - Sports

Everyone fears sudden, untimely injury.

Independent

An untimely death.

The New York Times

"Untimely death is virtually certain," he says.

Independent

Family and friends mourn her untimely passing.

The New York Times

An untimely turnover was "a turnover situation".

The New York Times - Sports

Untimely rain falls, drenching my flowing sleeves.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "untimely reply", ensure the context clearly indicates that the delay or inappropriateness of the response had a negative impact or was unexpected. Consider alternatives if a more neutral tone is desired.

Common error

Avoid using "untimely reply" when simply stating a response was late. This phrase implies the delay caused inconvenience or was particularly inappropriate. If the timing is neutral, alternatives like "late reply" are more suitable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "untimely reply" functions as a noun phrase where "untimely" modifies the noun "reply". It describes a response that is not only late but also ill-timed or inappropriate, often implying negative consequences. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "untimely reply" is grammatically sound but infrequently used. It describes a response that is not only late but also inconvenient or inappropriate. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct in written English. Alternative phrases like "late response" or "delayed response" may be more suitable depending on the context. When using the phrase, consider the connotations of inconvenience or negative impact, and ensure the register aligns with the intended audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

late response

A more straightforward and common way to express the same idea.

delayed response

Focuses specifically on the aspect of being late or held up.

tardy response

Similar to 'late', but slightly more formal and emphasizes a violation of punctuality.

overdue response

Emphasizes that the response was expected earlier and is now past its due date.

ill-timed response

Highlights that the response was not appropriate or suitable for the occasion.

poorly timed response

Similar to 'ill-timed', but less formal and more direct.

badly timed response

Highlights the timing as the cause for the unsuccessfulness of a reply.

inopportune response

Similar to 'ill-timed', but slightly more formal.

mistimed response

Very similar to badly timed response but emphasizes an error in planning the timing of the answer.

inappropriate response

Focuses on the unsuitability of the response itself, rather than its timing.

FAQs

What does "untimely reply" mean?

The phrase "untimely reply" refers to a response that is delayed or occurs at an inappropriate time, often causing inconvenience or negative consequences. It suggests the timing of the reply was particularly unfortunate.

What can I say instead of "untimely reply"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "delayed response", "late response", or "ill-timed response". Choose the phrase that best fits the specific reason for the delay or inappropriateness.

Is "untimely reply" formal or informal?

"Untimely reply" has a slightly formal tone. In very casual settings, simpler alternatives like "late reply" might be more appropriate. The best choice depends on the specific context and your audience.

How to use "untimely reply" in a sentence?

You can use "untimely reply" in a sentence like: "I apologize for the untimely reply; I was caught up with other commitments." Ensure that the sentence clearly conveys the negative impact or inconvenience caused by the delay.