Definition of Belated
Quick Meaning of Belated
Late or delayed. Used for wishes, greetings, or apologies that come after the right moment.
Detailed Definition of Belated
Done or coming late or too late, especially after the expected or proper time.
How to Pronounce Belated
Stress pattern: Ooo (3-syllable word).
Tip: First syllable like 'be-' in 'began'. Second part sounds like 'LAY-tid'. Stress the first syllable.
Watch out: be-LATE-ed (stress second syllable) or buh-LAY-ted (wrong vowel on first)
Origin and Etymology of Belated
From 'belate' (archaic: to make late) + -ed. 'Belate' comes from Old Norse roots.
How to Use Belated in a Sentence
Each example shows “belated” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“She sent belated birthday wishes to her friend.”
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“The government's belated response to the crisis disappointed many citizens.”
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“His belated apology could not repair the damage caused to their friendship.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Belated
Common Synonyms for Belated
Smart Synonyms for Belated — When to Use Each
- late
- More casual or general; less formal tone
- delayed
- For things slowed down by external factors
- overdue
- For obligations and deadlines with official dates
Antonyms of Belated
Common Collocations with Belated
These phrases pair with “belated” in everyday English:
- belated apology
- belated birthday wishes
- belated greetings
- belated recognition
- belated action
Common Mistakes When Using Belated
Even fluent speakers slip up with “belated”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: His belated apology for the mistake.
- ✓ Correct: His belated apology for the mistake was not enough.
- Why: Sentence fragment. Belated is an adjective; complete the clause with a verb.
- ✗ Wrong: The payment is belated by three weeks.
- ✓ Correct: The payment is overdue by three weeks or The payment is belated.
- Why: Belated does not take 'by'; use overdue for measured durations.
Words Confused With Belated
- Belated vs Belated vs. related: Sound similar but unrelated: belated=late, related=connected
Other Forms of Belated
- Noun: belatedness
- Adjective: belated
- Adverb: belatedly
Frequently Asked Questions About Belated
What is the meaning of "Belated"?
Late or delayed. Used for wishes, greetings, or apologies that come after the right moment.
How do you pronounce "Belated"?
The IPA is /bɪˈleɪtɪd/. First syllable like 'be-' in 'began'. Second part sounds like 'LAY-tid'. Stress the first syllable.
What part of speech is "Belated"?
"Belated" is an adjective at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Belated"?
Common synonyms include late, tardy, delayed.
How do you use "Belated" in a sentence?
For example: "She sent belated birthday wishes to her friend."