Delay Meaning
Delay Definition & Usage
To postpone or cause something to happen later than planned or expected.
Examples
- "The flight was delayed due to bad weather conditions."
- "The meeting has been delayed until next week."
- "The construction project has been delayed by several months."
- "We had to delay the wedding because of unexpected family issues."
- "I’m sorry for the delay in replying to your email."
A situation in which something is postponed or hindered.
Examples
- "The delay in the train schedule caused many passengers to miss their appointments."
- "The delay was inevitable given the snowstorm."
- "There was a long delay at the airport due to technical issues."
- "After the delay, the guests finally arrived at the event."
- "The delay in the construction project led to additional costs."
To cause a hindrance or obstruction, usually in progress or success.
Examples
- "His fear of failure delayed his decision to apply for the job."
- "The lack of resources delayed the launch of the new product."
- "Her indecision delayed the entire project by weeks."
- "Economic factors have delayed the company’s expansion plans."
- "The delay in making decisions contributed to the financial crisis."
Cultural Context
The concept of 'delay' is prevalent in both professional and everyday life. From transportation delays to business projects and personal appointments, the idea of things not happening on time is a universal experience. Delays can be frustrating but also unavoidable, often leading to cultural norms around patience and time management. In the workplace, delays may be seen as a sign of poor planning, whereas in personal life, they may be accepted as part of the unpredictability of life.
The Great Delay
Story
The Great Delay
It was a crisp winter morning, and the city was bustling with the usual rush of commuters. However, today, a significant delay was in the air—both literally and figuratively. The 8:00 AM train was nowhere to be seen, and the board flashed red with 'delayed' written in bold letters. People shuffled restlessly in the crowded station, checking their phones and watches. Clara, who had an important business meeting in an hour, was starting to feel the weight of the delay. It wasn't just the inconvenience of waiting—she could almost feel her schedule crumbling apart. With every passing minute, the chances of her being late increased. She glanced over at a group of workers in construction uniforms who were chatting nearby. One of them was explaining how their project had been delayed by weeks due to unforeseen issues with the materials. As she overheard their conversation, Clara realized how often delays were a part of life. From construction to travel, even her own hesitation to make a tough decision had delayed her career for months. Just then, an announcement rang out over the PA system. The train was now expected in 15 minutes, a slight delay, but a delay nonetheless. 'Sometimes you just have to wait,' Clara thought, accepting that life—like the train—would always be a little bit delayed.
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