"late for class" vs "late to class"

Question

"late for class" vs "late to class"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Late to class' is used when referring to the time of arrival at the class, while 'late for class' is used when referring to the reason for being late. They are not interchangeable.

Last Updated: March 21, 2024

This phrase is used to indicate the reason or cause for being late to class.

Examples:

She was late for class because her alarm didn't go off.
He is always late for class due to oversleeping.
I can't be late for class again.
The students were late for class because of the heavy rain.
Don't be late for class tomorrow.

Alternatives:

late because of class
delayed for class

This phrase is used to indicate that someone arrived at the class after the expected time.

Examples:

I was late to class because the bus was delayed.
She is always late to class.
He apologized for being late to class.
Don't be late to class tomorrow.
The students were late to class due to heavy traffic.

Alternatives:

arrived late to class
got to class late

Answer 1

late for class

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to the reason for being late to class.

Answer 2

late to class

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to the time of arrival at the class.

"late for class" vs "late to class"

late for class

late to class

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