Introduction
A ” late response in Spanish” typically happens when you take longer than expected to reply to a message or communication. This can be due to a variety of reasons, from being busy to simply forgetting. How you address the delay in your response can depend on the context and your relationship with the person you’re responding to. Offering a polite or humorous acknowledgment can help smooth over the late reply and keep the conversation going. Below are 20 possible responses in Spanish to acknowledge a late response.
Responses to a Late Response in Spanish
- “¡Perdón por la demora! Estaba ocupadísimo/a.”
(Sorry for the delay! I was super busy.) - “¡Lo siento! Estaba fuera todo el día.”
(Sorry! I was out all day.) - “¡Tarde, pero seguro! Aquí estoy.”
(Late, but sure! Here I am.) - “¡Mis disculpas! Me retrasé un poco.”
(My apologies! I got a bit delayed.) - “¡Perdón por la espera, se me pasó el tiempo!”
(Sorry for the wait, I lost track of time!) - “¡Lo siento mucho, acabo de ver tu mensaje!”
(I’m really sorry, I just saw your message!) - “Estuve tan ocupado/a que no vi el mensaje. Perdón.”
(I was so busy that I didn’t see the message. Sorry.) - “¡Ups! Me tomé un poquito de tiempo, pero ya estoy aquí.”
(Oops! I took a bit of time, but I’m here now.) - “Perdón por la demora, ¿cómo estás?”
(Sorry for the delay, how are you?) - “¡Perdón por tardar! ¿Qué tal todo?”
(Sorry for taking so long! How’s everything?) - “¡Se me pasó completamente! Perdón.”
(I completely forgot! Sorry.) - “Perdón, tuve un día de locos, ¿en qué estábamos?”
(Sorry, I had a crazy day, what were we talking about?) - “No te preocupes, aquí estoy ahora. ¿Todo bien?”
(Don’t worry, I’m here now. Everything good?) - “¡Disculpa por la tardanza, fue un día muy ocupado!”
(Sorry for the delay, it was a very busy day!) - “¡Perdón por responder tarde, me distraje!”
(Sorry for the late reply, I got distracted!) - “¡Lo siento, me quedé sin batería en el teléfono!”
(Sorry, my phone ran out of battery!) - “¡A veces el tiempo se me escapa! Disculpa por el retraso.”
(Sometimes time slips away from me! Sorry for the delay.) - “¡Perdón por la espera, pero aquí estoy ahora!”
(Sorry for the wait, but I’m here now!) - “¡Lo siento, estaba en una reunión! ¿Qué tal?”
(Sorry, I was in a meeting! How’s it going?) - “Perdón por responder tarde, estaba en un lío. ¿Qué pasa?”
(Sorry for the late reply, I was in a mess. What’s up?)
Conclusion
A late response in Spanish doesn’t have to be awkward. Whether you’re apologizing for a busy day, offering a humorous excuse, or simply acknowledging the delay, these responses allow you to smooth over any delay in communication. Showing understanding and giving a polite or playful reply can maintain a friendly tone and keep the conversation going, even after a late response.

Alex Bennett, MA in Communication Studies
Alex Bennett is a recognized voice in digital communication, specializing in responses and replays for effective audience engagement. Holding an MA in Communication Studies, Alex combines academic expertise with practical insights into crafting meaningful online interactions. He provides actionable strategies to develop authentic and resonant responses that strengthen digital relationships and enhance brand perception. A dedicated analyst of communication patterns, Alex empowers individuals and brands to master the art of impactful online conversations in today’s digital landscape.