늦다 vs 지체되다
Korean word comparison
Listen to 늦다
Listen to 지체되다
| 늦다 | 지체되다 |
|---|---|
neut-DA verb (descriptive/adjective in Korean grammar) | ji-che-dwe-da verb (descriptive/adjective in Korean grammar) |
| to be late; to be delayed; not on time | to be delayed; to be held up (usually about processes, schedules, or deliveries) |
How they differ
지체되다 describes a delay or hold-up in a process, schedule, or movement (e.g., shipping, construction, administrative procedures), whereas 늦다 can describe being late but does not by itself emphasize a cause or the passive, obstructed nature of the delay. 지체되다 is typically used when an external factor causes the delay and is often used in formal/official contexts.
When to use each
When to use 늦다: Prefer 늦다 for simple, everyday remarks like 'the bus is late' or 'I'm late' when no emphasis on process or cause is needed.
When to use 지체되다: Prefer 지체되다 when reporting that an event, schedule, or delivery has been delayed due to some hold-up, especially in formal notices or explanations.
Side-by-side examples
- 배송이 늦어졌어요.
(The delivery got late / The delivery is delayed.) - 배송이 지체되었어요.
(The delivery has been delayed / The shipment was held up.)
Register & nuance: 지체되다 is more formal and often used in written/official contexts (announcements, reports); 늦다 is more colloquial and general.