lately - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
lately Word Meanings
- after the expected or usual time
- not on time
- advanced in time or age
lately Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
lately Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/leɪt/
US
/leɪt/
lately Word Etymology
late = (Old English) læt, meaning 'slow, sluggish'; the word evolved from Old English through Middle English into its current use in Modern English. Imagine a person stuck in traffic, looking at their watch in frustration as time slips by slowly.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I grip my watch, set the timer, and lean toward the door. The minute hand moves as I adjust my pace, and I realize I am late. I push past the plan I made, deciding to stay a beat longer and let the moment breathe. It feels like a small move I choose in the day, a way to keep control when time slips.
Real Context
Late is a versatile word that can describe when something happens after the expected time, when someone is not on time, or when describing age or timing that is further along than usual. As an adjective, it often appears before a noun to flag lateness: a late train, a late arrival. As an adverb, it modifies verbs, showing that the action occurred after the planned or usual time. In everyday speech, late carries nuance: you can feel frustration about delays, or you can speak affectionately about someone who is late in life or who arrived late after a long wait. Learners sometimes confuse late with delay, tardy, or 'after the fact,' so practice with multiple contexts.
Usage Reminders
- - Arrive on time or early when possible.
- - Late describes timing (after the planned time), not necessarily blame.
- - Use late as an adjective before a noun: a late train; the late arrival.
- - Use late as an adverb to modify a verb: He arrived late.
- - Distinguish late from delay or tardy in different contexts.
Common Misconceptions
- Late means something bad happened; often it just describes timing, not blame.
- Late and delayed are interchangeable; delay focuses on cause, late on timing.
- Late only describes time of day; it can also refer to age or late in life.
- The phrase 'the late X' refers to a deceased person.
- Don't use late to mean 'almost' or 'very near'—use nearly or almost.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: late centers on when something happens relative to expectations, not on moral judgments. Learners often mix it with delay (cause of late) or tardy (more formal). Remember the 'the late X' construction for deceased people.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations with late (late for, late at night, late in life).
- Practice both describing timing (I was late) and explaining causes (I was late because...).
- Keep apart late, delay, and tardy by noting who/what is affected.
- Remember the phrase the late X for deceased people.
- Use run late or be late for a meeting to show timing in real situations.
- Create mini timelines to visualize events and check where late fits.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'lately'?
A.Now
B.In the past
C.Tomorrow
D.Always
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'lately' correctly?
A.I ate pizza lately.
B.She finished her homework lately.
C.He has been reading a lot lately.
D.They traveled to Paris lately.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'lately'?
A.Occasionally
B.Previously
C.Always
D.Never
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'lately'?
A.Immediately
B.Early
C.Sometimes
D.Often
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario involving the word 'lately'?
A.She just started a new job.
B.They recently moved to a new city.
C.He bought a car last week.
D.I always go for a run in the morning.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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