Word: belate (verb)

Associations

The word "belate" means to make something late or to cause a delay. This word is not commonly used in modern English, but it can be associated with being late or tardy.

• Example 1: "The train was belated due to heavy rain." (Here, it shows that the train arrived later than expected.)
• Example 2: "He belated his response to the invitation." (This means he replied later than he should have.)
• Example 3: "The belated delivery of the package caused frustration." (This indicates that the package arrived later than planned.)

A common synonym for "belate" is "delay." The main difference is that "delay" is more widely used and understood in everyday language, while "belate" is more formal and less common.

Substitution

Other words or phrases that can be used in place of "belate" include:

• Delay: This is a more common word and can be used in almost all contexts where "belate" would fit.
• Postpone: This means to put something off to a later time, but it usually implies a planned delay.
• Tardy: This is an adjective that describes someone or something that is late.

Deconstruction

The word "belate" comes from the prefix "be-" which often means "to make" or "to cause," and the root "late," which refers to being delayed or not on time. The combination suggests causing something to be late.

Historically, "belate" is not frequently used in modern English, and its usage has declined over time. This might be why many people are unfamiliar with it today.

Inquiry

• Can you think of a time when you were belated in responding to something? How did it make you feel?
• In what situations do you think it is important to avoid being belated?
• How do you usually handle situations where something is delayed, like a meeting or an event?