13 Phrases for Discussing Delays
Delays happen—traffic jams, tech issues, last-minute changes—but how you talk about them can ease frustration and keep trust intact. These 13 phrases for discussing delays help you communicate honestly and respectfully, whether you’re the one running late, explaining a missed deadline, or responding to someone else’s delay. Stay calm, clear, and considerate in any situation.
Common Ways to Say ‘We’re Running Behind Schedule’
Acknowledging a Delay (Your Side)
- We’re running a bit behind schedule. Professional and calm—ideal for team updates. We’re running a bit behind schedule, but we’ll catch up by lunch.
- I’m running late—sorry! Casual and sincere for texts or calls. I’m running late—sorry! Traffic is terrible.
- There’s been a slight delay. Neutral and understated—softens the impact. There’s been a slight delay with the shipment, but it’s on its way.
- Unfortunately, we’ve hit a delay. Honest but professional—common in work emails. Unfortunately, we’ve hit a delay due to server issues.
Explaining the Cause
- Due to unforeseen circumstances,… Formal and widely accepted for unexpected issues. Due to unforeseen circumstances, the event has been postponed.
- Because of [reason], we’re delayed. Direct and transparent—builds trust. Because of a power outage, we’re delayed by about 30 minutes.
- Things took longer than expected. Humble and relatable—great for project updates. Things took longer than expected, but the final design is ready now.
Responding to Someone Else’s Delay
- No worries—these things happen. Kind and reassuring—reduces guilt. “Sorry I’m late!” — “No worries—these things happen.”
- Thanks for letting me know. Polite and appreciative—shows you value communication. “My flight’s delayed.” — “Thanks for letting me know.”
- Is there anything I can do to help? Supportive and proactive—strengthens teamwork. Is there anything I can do to help get things back on track?
Managing Expectations
- We’re aiming to resume by [time]. Gives a clear, hopeful timeline. We’re aiming to resume by 2 PM.
- Please bear with us. A polite request for patience—common in service or tech settings. The system is down. Please bear with us while we fix it.
Real-Life Dialogues
Team Member: Unfortunately, we’ve hit a delay—the client changed their requirements.
Manager: Got it. Things took longer than expected, huh?
Team Member: Yes. We’re aiming to resume by tomorrow morning.
Manager: Please bear with us—we’ll get it right.
Friend: I’m running late—sorry! My train was canceled.
You: No worries—these things happen.
Friend: Thanks for letting me know you’re not mad!
You: Of course! Just text when you’re close.
Quick Tips: Choosing the Right Phrase
| Situation | Recommended Expression | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Email to clients or colleagues | Unfortunately, we’ve hit a delay. | Professional, honest, and sets the right tone. |
| Texting a friend you’re late | I’m running late—sorry! | Casual, warm, and shows accountability. |
| Responding to someone’s delay | No worries—these things happen. | Kind and prevents unnecessary stress. |
| Public or team update | Please bear with us. | Polite, humble, and widely recognized. |
Practice Tip
Next time you’re even slightly behind schedule, try using one of these phrases—like “We’re running a bit behind” or “There’s been a slight delay.” It builds communication habits that keep trust strong!
Why This Matters
- Using these 13 phrases for discussing delays shows respect for others’ time and builds reliability—even when things go off track.
- It reduces tension in work, travel, and personal settings by replacing blame with clarity and empathy.
- Fluent English speakers don’t hide delays—they communicate them early and kindly. These phrases help you do the same.
Delays are inevitable—but poor communication doesn’t have to be. Try using one of these 13 phrases for discussing delays the next time plans shift. You’ll keep things calm, clear, and respectful. Happy learning! 😊
