we delayed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we delayed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a postponement or a decision to hold off on an action or event. Example: "Due to unforeseen circumstances, we delayed the meeting until next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

We delayed and reconsidered, but finally we decided to go.

The New Yorker

And if we delayed in doing that, why aren't we doing that now?

The New York Times

We delayed having a family for a few years after I became an MP at 29.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

We delayed our honeymoon until January to allow ourselves time to enjoy the afterglow of the Games.

The Guardian - Sport

We delayed his bedtime so we could watch the first period of games together, side by side on the sofa.

The New York Times

My grandfather died just before we left, and we delayed our trip for the funeral: the first time in two years I'd seen many members of my family.

The Guardian - Travel

"But we delayed it for a year to allow Stevie to support her solo record and for Lindsey to do the same with his," Fleetwood said.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

"If we delay now, we will have a real delay.

The New Yorker

"Every day we delay, families break up.

The Guardian

Each day we delay, potentially another baby dies.

The Guardian

"Every year that we delay this, more people die".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we delayed", ensure the context clearly indicates what was postponed and the reason for the delay. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "we delayed" without specifying what action or event was delayed. This can confuse the reader and obscure the intended meaning. Always provide clear context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we delayed" functions as a verb phrase, with "we" acting as the subject and "delayed" as the main verb in the past tense. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and commonly used in English. It signifies the action of postponing or deferring something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

43%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we delayed" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to indicate a postponement or deferral. Ludwig AI confirms that it is acceptable in English writing. As showcased by the examples, the phrase appears most frequently in news and scientific contexts. While several alternative phrases exist, such as "we postponed" or "we put off", the choice depends on the specific nuance and formality required. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what was delayed and the reason behind it.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we postponed

Replaces 'delayed' with a direct synonym, indicating a temporary suspension of an action.

we put off

Uses a phrasal verb to convey the same meaning of delaying an action to a later time.

we deferred

A more formal synonym for 'delayed', suggesting a more considered decision to postpone.

we held back

Indicates a conscious decision not to proceed immediately, implying a degree of restraint.

we suspended

Implies a temporary halt to an activity or decision, often with the intention of resuming later.

we adjourned

Suggests a formal postponement, typically of a meeting or session.

we tabled

Indicates that a proposal or discussion was postponed indefinitely, often to avoid a decision.

we slowed down

Expresses a reduction in pace or activity, implying a deliberate attempt to delay progress.

we waited

A simple and direct way of saying that action was delayed, focusing on the act of waiting.

we took our time

Emphasizes that the delay was intentional, allowing for more careful consideration or execution.

FAQs

How can I use "we delayed" in a sentence?

You can use "we delayed" to indicate that your team or organization postponed something. For instance, "We delayed the launch due to technical issues" or "We delayed making a decision until we had more information".

What are some alternatives to saying "we delayed"?

Alternatives include "we postponed", "we put off", or "we deferred", depending on the context and level of formality.

Is it better to say "we delayed" or "we postponed"?

Both "we delayed" and "we postponed" are correct. "Postponed" often implies a specific future date, while "delayed" can be more general. Choose the word that best fits the situation.

What's the difference between "we delayed" and "we hesitated"?

"We delayed" means we postponed something. "We hesitated" implies a pause due to uncertainty or reluctance. For example, "We delayed the meeting" (postponed) vs. "We hesitated to make a decision" (were uncertain).