August 12, 2011 - Word of the Day: delay

The word "delay" can be used as a verb or as a noun when describing a situation in which something or someone is late. In fact, "delay" is very similar to the adjective "late," but you can't use "late" as a verb or as a noun.

• My flight was delayed for about two hours. (The plane was late. This sentence is in the passive voice. "Delay" is often used in the passive voice.)
• You should expect to be delayed if you drive on a highway where there's a lot of construction.
• They're going to delay their wedding until next year. (delay = put off; postpone)
• Don't delay. Try to make a decision now.

All of these sentences use "delay" as a noun:

• There was a 30-minute delay during the game because of rain.
• Highway construction causes big delays during rush hour.
• A big snowstorm created delays at the airport.
• If you order now, there won't be any delay.
  

Click here to see more words.