What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lagging
Example
The game was lagging due to a poor internet connection. [lagging: verb]
Example
The lagging response of the system caused frustration among the users. [lagging: adjective]
delay
Example
The flight was delayed due to bad weather. [delayed: verb]
Example
The delay in the delivery of the goods caused inconvenience to the customers. [delay: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Delay is more commonly used than lagging in everyday language and covers a wider range of contexts. Lagging is mostly used in technical or specialized contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lagging and delay?
Both lagging and delay can be used in formal and informal contexts, but lagging is more technical and may be more appropriate in formal or specialized settings.