6 ways to use 'late': what does 'late' mean? - English In A Minute

How do we use 'late'? Is it an adjective or an adverb? Does it have other meanings? It's a lot more useful vocabulary than you think! Dan's stayed here late just to explain 6 uses of late! Give us 60 seconds and we'll give you the English in this short, free English lesson.

Watch the video, then answer this question:
Which preposition can be combined with 'late' to mean 'recently'?
a) by b) of c) from d) to

☺️Visit our website for the transcript, a summary and more quizzes: http://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/course/eiam/unit-1/session-83

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Hi, everyone!

'Late' is a very useful word.

Find out why on this English In A Minute.

The most common meaning of late is

'after the correct time'.

It can go before a noun as an adjective.

I had a late breakfast
so I took the late train.

Or it can modify
a verb as an adverb.

I arrived late to class
because the train came late.

And don't forget,
you can be 'late for' something.

I'm going to be late
for my own wedding!

'Late' can also mean
'near the end of a period of time'.

We didn't go to bed
until late at night.

We often talk about periods
in history this way.

The internet was invented
in the late 20th century.

You can also combine 'late'
with 'of' to mean 'recently'.

I've been using
the internet a lot of late.

Finally,

'late' can be used to refer
to a person who has died

- usually recently.

Look at the time!
I've got to go! I'm late!

Not dead!