How to Say ‘Was late’ in Traditional Chinese
遲到了
chí dào le
[chr daw luh]
💬 Usage Tip: [遲到] is the set phrase for "be late," and [了] adds "now / already," so [遲到了] means "am late" or "ended up late." You can use the same idea in [他遲到了。] "He's late."
Phrase Breakdown
遲到
chí dào
[chr daw]
be late
Means “to be late” or “to arrive late.”
我今天遲到，所以一直道歉。
I was late today, so I kept apologizing.
了
le
[luh]
completed action particle
Shows that the lateness has happened or is now the case.
我遲到了，真的很不好意思。
I was late, and I’m really sorry about it.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Spent three months in Taiwan and this app was my lifeline. The tonal practice with real scenarios helped me sound less like a textbook and more like a person.”
Laura H., 28, Photographer
“Shanghai business dinners require real Mandarin skills. This app’s scenario-based approach meant I could keep up with clients after just a month of practice.”
Ryan M., 36, Consultant
“I hop cities every few months and this is the only app that actually prepares me for living somewhere, not just visiting. Tokyo was the real test — passed with flying colors.”
James O., 28, Remote Worker