delay
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to be in default
A state in which a due obligation, often a payment, is not fulfilled on time. This is a legal term that can result in consequences such as reminder fees or interest.
Wenn Sie die Rechnung nicht bis Ende der Woche bezahlen, geraten Sie in Verzug.
If you do not pay the invoice by the end of the week, you will be in default.
The noun 'Verzug' (delay/default) is used almost exclusively in fixed expressions. It is best learned directly in the combinations 'in Verzug sein/geraten' (to be/fall into default) and 'ohne Verzug' (without delay).
Bitte überweisen Sie den Betrag ohne Verzug.
Please transfer the amount without delay.
The expression 'in Verzug geraten' (to fall into default) is a fixed term in legal and business contexts. It is usually used in connection with an unpaid invoice: 'mit der Zahlung in Verzug sein' (to be in default with a payment).
Der Kunde ist seit zwei Monaten mit der Zahlung in Verzug.
The customer has been in default with the payment for two months.
The expression 'ohne Verzug' (without delay) means 'sofort' (immediately) or 'unverzüglich' (without delay). It is mainly used in formal written language, in contracts, or in official letters.
Schäden an der Mietsache sind dem Vermieter ohne Verzug zu melden.
Damage to the rented property must be reported to the landlord without delay.
In the general meaning of 'Verzögerung' (delay), 'Verzug' (delay) is often found as part of compound nouns. Well-known examples are 'Bauverzug' (construction delay) or 'Lieferverzug' (delivery delay).
Wegen des schlechten Wetters kam es zu einem erheblichen Bauverzug.
Because of the bad weather, there was a considerable construction delay.
immediately
'sofort' and 'ohne Verzug' can both mean that something should happen without delay. 'sofort' is the normal everyday word and sounds direct. 'ohne Verzug' (without delay) is a fixed, more formal expression with the noun 'Verzug'. You often read it in official letters, contracts, or legal texts. In conversation, people usually say 'sofort'. In a letter from an authority or company, 'ohne Verzug' can sound more natural.
Nach der Mahnung muss die Firma den offenen Betrag ohne Verzug zahlen.
After the payment reminder, the company must pay the outstanding amount without delay.
Wenn der Arzt anruft, komme ich sofort in die Praxis.
If the doctor calls, I will come to the practice right away.