we are behind schedule

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence "We are behind schedule" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this sentence to suggest that an activity or project is running late in regards to the expected timetable. For example, "We had expected to finish the presentation by now, but it looks like we are behind schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

WHO ISSUED A PRESS RELEASE SAYING WE ARE BEHIND SCHEDULE AND OVER BUDGET??!! Subject: <<Out of Office AutoReply>> RE: IOC visit - update!

BBC

It isn't true that we are behind schedule," Mr. Letta said at the opening.

The New York Times

On Tuesday night, Wojcicki wrote a short blog post, acknowledging, "We are behind schedule with our responses" to the F.D.A.

The New Yorker

But no matter how strong the temptation to stay in, Gracie demands her walks, appealing to us with her soulful, puzzled eyes when we are behind schedule.

The New York Times

She said 23andMe submitted its first application for FDA clearance in July 2012 and submitted another application at the end of August, but admitted "we are behind schedule with our responses".

The Guardian

"We are behind schedule and hope to catch up in the next day or so.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"We're behind schedule as it is".

The New Yorker

"We're behind schedule, I'm sorry," she announced.

The New Yorker

"We are doing our best to get her ready for Arkansas, but we're behind schedule".

The New York Times - Sports

We were behind schedule because of the 45-minute wait to enter the retail shop.

The Washington Post

We were behind schedule, and everyone but me was working hard to make up some mileage.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When communicating about being behind schedule, always provide context. Explain why you're behind, what steps are being taken to catch up, and what the revised timeline looks like. This shows accountability and proactive problem-solving.

Common error

Don't simply announce that "we are behind schedule" without further explanation. This can cause unnecessary panic and distrust. Provide specific details and a clear plan to address the issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are behind schedule" primarily functions as a statement of fact, indicating that a planned timeline is not being met. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, evident in numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we are behind schedule" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that a project or task is not progressing as planned. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is perfectly acceptable and useful in written English. It is frequently found in news and media, indicating its relevance in reporting project delays or issues. While versatile, consider using more formal alternatives like "we have fallen behind the projected timeline" in professional contexts, and always provide context when communicating delays to maintain transparency and trust. Be mindful of the impact this statement can have and be proactive in explaining the causes and proposed solutions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we're running late

This alternative is more informal and often used in everyday conversation.

we are falling behind

This emphasizes the act of lagging in terms of progress compared to a standard.

we're not on track

It indicates a deviation from the intended path, focusing on the current state of progress.

we have fallen behind the projected timeline

This is a more formal and detailed way of expressing the same idea, suitable for professional communication.

we're off schedule

This alternative is short and direct, indicating a deviation from the planned timeline.

progress is lagging

It emphasizes the slow pace of advancement rather than the deviation from a schedule.

we are delayed

This indicates that progress has been impeded, either unexpectedly or predicted.

we have missed our deadline

This emphasizes failing to complete milestones by the time they are expected.

we are struggling to keep up

It highlights the effort required to maintain progress.

the project is not advancing as planned

This alternative focuses on the project's overall progress, emphasizing that it's not meeting expectations.

FAQs

How do I use "we are behind schedule" in a sentence?

You can use "we are behind schedule" to indicate that a project, task, or activity is progressing slower than planned. For example, "Due to unforeseen circumstances, "we are behind schedule" on the construction project".

What's a more formal way to say "we are behind schedule"?

In a formal setting, you might say "we have fallen behind the projected timeline" or "progress is lagging". These phrases sound more professional than "we are behind schedule".

What can I say instead of "we are behind schedule" to soften the news?

Consider using phrases like "we are experiencing some delays" or "we are working to catch up" to convey the message in a less alarming way. These options provide a gentler way to communicate that "we are behind schedule".

Is it ever appropriate to use "we're running late" instead of "we are behind schedule"?

"We're running late" is more informal and appropriate for casual situations, such as informing someone you'll arrive later than expected. "We are behind schedule" is better suited for more formal contexts, like project management updates, where a detailed explanation is necessary. The context determines whether it is appropriate to say "we're running late" instead of "we are behind schedule".