遅

JLPT N3

Late, slow

Readings

On’yomi: チ (chi)

Kun’yomi: おそ(い), おく(れる), おく(らす) (oso(i), oku(reru), oku(raru))

• おく(れる) – to be late, delayed • おく(らす) – to delay something • おそ(い) – slow, late

Structure

Radical: Purchase the course for full access of this content.

Composition: Purchase the course for full access of this content.

Detailed Explanation

Purchase the course for full access of this content.

Mnemonic

Purchase the course for full access of this content.

Etymology

Purchase the course for full access of this content.

Visual Tip

Purchase the course for full access of this content.

Vocabulary

遅い

おそい

slow

遅刻

ちこく

late

遅れる

おくれる

be late

遅延

ちえん

delay

手遅れ

ておくれ

too late

Example Sentences

歩くのが遅いです。

あるくのがおそいです。

Walking is slow.

遅刻しました。

ちこくしました。

I was late.

電車が遅れます。

でんしゃがおくれます。

The train is delayed.

遅延しています。

ちえんしています。

There is a delay.

手遅れです。

ておくれです。

It is too late.

Cultural Note

⏰ In Japanese culture, punctuality is highly valued — being even a few minutes late can be considered impolite.
• “遅刻” (being late) is often apologized for sincerely: 「遅れてすみません。」(おくれてすみません。– Sorry for being late.)
• The phrase “時間に遅れる” (to be late for time) contrasts with “時間を守る” (to be on time), which is a key cultural virtue.