How to Say Late in Spanish | MostUsedWords.com

Updated for 2026, the word "tarde" is used in Spanish to describe being late or something being overdue.

How to Say Late in Spanish

The primary term for "late" in Spanish is "tarde," pronounced as /ˈtaɾ.ðe/. This versatile word can be used in various contexts, from personal lateness to delays in schedules or deadlines.

Cultural Context of Being Late

In many Spanish-speaking cultures, punctuality is highly valued, but there are nuances depending on the region and context. For instance, in some Latin American countries like Mexico, arriving a little late might be seen as more casual than it would be in Spain.

Expressions for Apologizing When You're Late

If you find yourself running behind schedule, here are some phrases to use:

• "Lo siento, llegué tarde."
• "Perdón por llegar tarde."
• "Lamento la tardanza."

Usage of 'Tarde' in Time Expressions

The word "tarde" can also be used to describe the time of day, meaning afternoon or evening. For example:

• In the afternoon, "por la tarde."
• This happened late at night, "esto sucedió muy tarde por la noche."

Meaning of "Late" in Spanish

In Spanish, "tarde" can refer to different types of lateness:

• I woke up late today. - "Me desperté tarde hoy."
• The flight is running late. - "El vuelo está retrasado."
• I'm behind schedule with my homework. - "Estoy atrasado con mi tarea."

Regional Differences in Usage of "Late"

Different Spanish-speaking countries have unique ways to express lateness:

• In Spain, "con retraso" (IPA: /kon reˈtɾa.so/).
• In Mexico and other Latin American countries, "tardar" (IPA: /tarˈdaɾ/) or "demora" (IPA: /deˈmo.ɾa/)
• In Puerto Rico, "tardío" (IPA: /tarˈdi.o/).

Common Mistakes When Using 'Tarde'

A common mistake is to use "tarde" in contexts where it doesn't fit. For example, saying "I arrived late," should be "Llegué tarde." instead of "Llegué tarde por la noche," which would imply arriving at night rather than being late for an appointment.

Sample Sentences on How to Say 'Late' in Spanish

To further illustrate the usage, here are more sample sentences:

• The meeting is scheduled for 2 PM but it's running late, - "La reunión está programada para las dos de la tarde pero está retrasada."
• I missed my train because I was late. - "Perdí mi tren porque llegué tarde."

Common Idioms Related to Lateness in Spanish

Here are some common idioms:

• To be late by a hair. - "Llegar con un pelo de retraso."
• To arrive at the last minute. - "Llegar al último momento."

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