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belated

English → EnglishformalInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "belated": "Belated" describes something that is happening, arriving, or being done much later than it should h

What does "belated" mean?

"Belated" describes something that is happening, arriving, or being done much later than it should have been. The mental image is of a gift or a letter that sits in the mail for weeks, finally reaching its destination long after the occasion it was intended for has passed. It is most commonly used in the phrase "belated birthday" or "belated congratulations." Because it carries an inherent sense of apology or recognition that the timing was off, it is slightly formal; you wouldn't typically use it in very casual, rapid-fire conversation unless you are intentionally being polite or self-deprecating.

"belated" in conversation

Apologizing for a late birthday card

I am so sorry this is late! Happy belated birthday!

I am so sorry this is late! Happy belated birthday!

Don't worry about it at all, I'm just glad you remembered.

Don't worry about it at all, I'm just glad you remembered.

Using 'belated' here softens the embarrassment of forgetting the actual date.

Acknowledging a late promotion

I wanted to offer my belated congratulations on your promotion.

I wanted to offer my belated congratulations on your promotion.

Thank you, I really appreciate you saying that.

Thank you, I really appreciate you saying that.

In professional settings, 'belated' shows that you are aware of the delay but still value the event.

"belated" in a sentence

  1. Happy belated birthday!

    Happy belated birthday!

  2. Please accept my belated apologies for missing the meeting yesterday.

    Please accept my belated apologies for missing the meeting yesterday.

  3. The government issued a belated response to the growing economic crisis.

    The government issued a belated response to the growing economic crisis.

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