Belatedly meaning

Belatedly definitions

What Does Belatedly Mean?

Belatedly means occurring later than expected or at a delayed time. It is often used to describe actions, events, or greetings that are sent or done after they should have been. When something is done belatedly, it means it is being done past the appropriate or expected time.

Examples of Belated Actions

Sending a birthday card a week after someone's birthday, apologizing for a mistake days after it was made, or congratulating someone on an achievement long after it occurred are all examples of actions that could be considered belated.

Etymology of Belatedly

The word "belated" comes from the Old English word "bælǣtan," which means to hinder. Over time, its meaning shifted to indicate lateness rather than hindrance. The suffix "-ly" is added to turn it into an adverb, giving us "belatedly."

Usage of Belatedly

Belatedly is commonly used in written and spoken English to convey the delay or tardiness of an event or action. It is often paired with an apology or explanation for the delay, such as "I am sending this belated birthday wish" or "The report was submitted belatedly due to unforeseen circumstances."

Synonyms for Belatedly

Some synonyms for belatedly include tardily, late, after the fact, delayed, postponed, deferred, behind schedule, behind time, overdue, and behindhand.

Impact of Being Belated

Being belated in actions or communications can sometimes diminish their impact. For example, receiving a belated thank you note may not have the same effect as receiving it promptly after a kind gesture. However, it is often better to acknowledge or send something belatedly than not at all.

Belatedly Examples

1. He belatedly realized he had forgotten his wallet at home.
2. The apology came belatedly, but it was still appreciated.
3. She sent the birthday card belatedly, but better late than never.
4. He belatedly recognized the importance of saving for retirement.
5. The decision to postpone the meeting was made belatedly.
6. She arrived at the party belatedly due to traffic delays.
7. They belatedly acknowledged their mistake and apologized for it.
8. The news of the scandal broke belatedly, causing shock among the public.
9. He belatedly realized the impact of his actions on those around him.
10. The professor handed back the graded papers belatedly, much to the students' frustration.

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