Which is correct:
"i will be late " or "i will be late today"?

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i will be late

This phrase is correct.

"I will be late" is a way to tell someone that you won't be on time.

Some examples from our editors:

  • I will be late to class tomorrow because I have a dentist appointment.
  • "Boss, I'm stuck in traffic, so I will be late to work this morning. I'm sorry."
  • I will be late to Tuesday night's meeting because my daughter has basketball practice.

Some alternatives from our editors:

  • I'll be late
  • I won't be on time

i will be late today

This phrase is correct.

"I will be late today" means that you will be tardy to an event that is happening today.

Some examples from our editors:

  • I will be late to work today because I'm coming from a doctor's appointment.
  • I will be late today, but I will come on time tomorrow.
  • My kids' school has a delayed opening, so I will be late to work today.

Some alternatives from our editors:

  • I'll be late today
  • I'm going to be late today
  • I'm not going to be on time today
"I will be late today" is a more specific version of "I will be late."
Betsy profile picture

Explained by Betsy
Editor at TextRanch

Last updated: April 15, 2019

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