What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lated
Example
The flight was lated due to bad weather. [lated: verb]
Example
We had a lated start to the party because of traffic. [lated: adjective]
belated
Example
I apologize for my belated response to your email. [belated: adjective]
Example
He sent her a belated birthday card two weeks after her actual birthday. [belated: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Belated is more commonly used than lated in everyday language and is more versatile in its usage. Lated is less common and is typically used in informal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lated and belated?
Belated is considered more formal than lated and is commonly used in formal writing and speech, such as in business correspondence or academic papers. Lated is more casual and is typically used in informal conversations or social media posts.
