What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
delay
Example
The flight was delayed due to bad weather. [delay: verb]
Example
There was a delay in the delivery of the package. [delay: noun]
postpone
Example
The meeting has been postponed until next week. [postpone: verb]
Example
I had to postpone my vacation due to work commitments. [postpone: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Postpone is more commonly used than delay in everyday language. Postpone is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while delay is more specific and often used in the context of transportation.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between delay and postpone?
Both delay and postpone can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, postpone may be considered more formal due to its association with scheduling and events.
