English Reference

late vs lately

Late describes something happening after the expected time, while lately describes something that has happened recently.

late

after the expected or usual time

The train was ten minutes late because of the heavy snow.

lately

in the recent period of time

She has been working very long hours at the office lately.

Watch out

  • The bus arrived lately today.

    The bus arrived late today.

  • I haven't seen him late.

    I haven't seen him lately.

Remember Late is about the clock; lately is about the calendar.

Quick check

Fill the gap with one of the two options.

  1. 1.

    I apologize for being to the meeting this morning.

  2. 2.

    Have you seen any good movies at the cinema ?

More like this in Grammar and structure.