tardy

[ˈtɑːrdi]

tardy Definition

• 1. delayed beyond the expected or proper time
• 2. slow in action or response
• 3. late for a scheduled event

Using tardy: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "tardy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The student was tardy for class again.

• Example

  The train was tardy by an hour due to technical issues.

• Example

  His tardy response to the email caused some confusion.

• Example

  The company's tardy reaction to the market changes resulted in a loss.

tardy Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for tardy

• late
• delayed
• unpunctual
• slow
• behind schedule

Antonyms for tardy

• punctual
• early
• on time

Idioms Using tardy

• better late than never

  it's better to do something late than to not do it at all

  Example

  I know I'm tardy with my report, but better late than never, right?

• drag one's feet

  to delay or be slow in taking action or making a decision

  Example

  The company has been dragging its feet on implementing the new policy, causing frustration among employees.

• time is of the essence

  time is important and should not be wasted

  Example

  We need to finish this project quickly - time is of the essence.

Phrases with tardy

• tardy slip

  a note given to a student who is late for class, usually requiring a signature from a teacher or administrator

  Example

  The student had to get a tardy slip from the office after arriving late to class.

• tardy bell

  the bell that signals the start of class, after which students are considered tardy if they arrive late

  Example

  The teacher closed the door after the tardy bell rang, indicating that class had started.

• tardy policy

  a set of rules and consequences for students who arrive late to class or school

  Example

  The school's tardy policy requires students to get a tardy slip and serve detention after a certain number of late arrivals.

Origins of tardy

from Old French 'tardif', meaning 'slow, late'

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Summary: tardy in Brief

The term 'tardy' [ˈtɑːrdi] refers to being delayed beyond the expected or proper time, slow in action or response, or late for a scheduled event. It can be used in various contexts, such as being tardy for class or having a tardy response to an email. 'Tardy' extends into phrases like 'tardy slip,' and idioms like 'better late than never,' denoting the importance of taking action despite being late.