Which one is correct?
"was delayed" or "is delayed"?

was delayed

This phrase is correct and commonly used to talk about something that was delayed in the past.

Use 'was delayed' when referring to something that experienced a delay in the past. For example, 'The flight was delayed due to bad weather.'

Examples:

  • The train was delayed by an hour yesterday.
  • The project was delayed due to unforeseen circumstances.
  • Her appointment was delayed because of traffic.

Alternatives:

  • experienced a delay
  • suffered a delay
  • encountered a delay
  • faced a delay
  • underwent a delay

is delayed

This phrase is correct and commonly used to talk about something that is currently delayed or has been delayed and is still affecting the present.

Use 'is delayed' when referring to something that is currently experiencing a delay or when the delay is ongoing. For example, 'The shipment is delayed due to customs issues.'

Examples:

  • The flight is delayed by two hours.
  • The payment is delayed because of a technical issue.
  • The delivery is delayed until next week.

Alternatives:

  • is experiencing a delay
  • is facing a delay
  • is encountering a delay
  • is suffering a delay
  • is undergoing a delay
Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Was delayed' is used to talk about something that was delayed in the past, while 'is delayed' is used to talk about something that is currently delayed or has been delayed and is still affecting the present.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

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