What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
belatedness
Example
I apologize for the belatedness of my birthday wishes. [belatedness: noun]
Example
The belatedness of the report caused a delay in the project. [belatedness: noun]
tardiness
Example
His constant tardiness to work resulted in disciplinary action. [tardiness: noun]
Example
The tardiness of the train caused me to miss my appointment. [tardiness: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tardiness is more commonly used than belatedness in everyday language. Tardiness is a term that is widely understood and used to describe being consistently late or behind schedule. On the other hand, belatedness is less common and may be used in more formal or specific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between belatedness and tardiness?
While tardiness is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, belatedness is more formal and may be used in more specialized or professional settings.