What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lateness
Example
I apologize for my lateness, the traffic was terrible. [lateness: noun]
Example
Her lateness is becoming a problem for the team. [lateness: noun]
tardiness
Example
His tardiness is causing problems for the project timeline. [tardiness: noun]
Example
The teacher gave him detention for his constant tardiness. [tardiness: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lateness is more commonly used in everyday language, while tardiness is more formal and often used in professional or academic settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between lateness and tardiness?
Tardiness is more formal and often used in professional or academic settings, while lateness is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
