verb HSK 2
Traditional 遲到
to be late · to arrive late
Meaning
迟到 means to arrive later than the expected or scheduled time. It's commonly used for being late to appointments, classes, work, or meetings. The word combines 迟 (late) and 到 (to arrive), literally meaning 'arrive late.'
Usage
This is a neutral, everyday term used in both formal and informal contexts. It's often followed by time expressions or reasons. Native speakers frequently use it with apologies (对不起，我迟到了) or to describe habitual lateness (他总是迟到).
Examples
- 01对不起，我今天早上迟到了。, .Sorry, I was late this morning.
- 02老师不喜欢学生上课迟到。.Teachers don't like students being late for class.
Characters
Common collocations
- 迟到了to have been late
- 不要迟到don't be late
- 经常迟到to often be late
- 上课迟到to be late for class
Antonyms
Origin
The word is a straightforward compound combining 迟 (late/delayed) with 到 (to arrive), creating a transparent meaning of 'late arrival.'