What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
put off
Example
I'll have to put off my vacation until next month. [put off: phrasal verb]
Example
He always puts off doing his homework until the last minute. [puts off: present tense]
delay
Example
The flight was delayed due to bad weather. [delayed: past participle]
Example
We experienced a delay in receiving our package due to shipping issues. [delay: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Delay is more commonly used than put off in everyday language. Delay is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while put off is less common and associated with a more informal tone.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between put off and delay?
While delay can be used in both formal and informal contexts, put off is typically associated with a more casual and informal tone.
