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Belated - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

belated

/bɪˈleɪtɪd/ /bɪˈleɪtɪd/

Definition:

Occurring or arriving after the expected time.

Synonyms:

tardy, overdue, delayed, late

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

punctual, timely

Common Collocations:

belated birthday wishes, belated response, belated arrival, belated apology

Derivatives:

belatedly, belatedness

Usage Tips:

Use "belated" to describe something that is late, especially greetings or actions meant for an earlier time.

Common Phrases:

belated happy birthday, better late than never

Etymology:

From "be-" (thoroughly) + "late," first used in the 17th century to mean "delayed."

Examples:

  • 1. She sent a belated birthday card after forgetting the date.
  • 2. His belated apology did little to mend their friendship.
  • 3. The team celebrated with a belated victory party last night.
  • 4. I received a belated reply to my email this morning.

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