What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
postponement
Example
The postponement of the conference was necessary due to the pandemic. [postponement: noun]
Example
We decided on a postponement of the project until next month. [postponement: gerund]
delay
Example
The flight was delayed by two hours due to bad weather. [delay: verb]
Example
There was a delay in the delivery of the package. [delay: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Delay is more commonly used than postponement in everyday language. Delay is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while postponement is less common and refers to a specific type of delay that involves rescheduling.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between postponement and delay?
Both postponement and delay can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, postponement may sound more formal and official due to its association with events, activities, and deadlines that require planning and coordination.
