How late you are and why you're late are important factors in your excuse. A special report for Expatica from the US-based Interchange Institute.

In writing the latest edition of Newcomer’s Almanac, our newsletter for newcomers to the US, I researched the origins of the terms "monochronic" and "polychronic" conceptions of time. I was answering a reader’s question about what time to show up for an 11am event.

 Besides giving a practical answer, I wanted to offer a bit of intercultural background and found an interesting historical note.

Edward Hall, who first described cultures as mono- or polychronic in 1983, had a more practical theory in 1953. He suggested that there are five degrees of lateness:

1. mumble something time
2. slight apology time
3. mildly insulting time
4. rude time
5. downright insulting time

Here is my own advice about these categories, assuming you are going to a business meeting with one other important person in the US:

If you are three to five minutes late to a business meeting, you should "mumble something." Briefly acknowledge your lateness, but no explanation is necessary.

Five minutes late? A "slight apology" is called for. "I’m sorry — the traffic was really terrible", for example.

Being 10 to 15 minutes late is "mildly insulting" so you should apologise, give an honest explanation, and look for a way to make up for the insult.

Fifteen to 30 minutes late is "rude" and being later than that is "downright insulting." The person may decide you are not coming, and go on to another meeting.

Of course, there are real and "good" explanations for being late — delayed planes, flooded roads, etc. Note that my list does not include "needing to finish a conversation".

If possible, call ahead to explain. There are subcultural differences within the US, so compare my advice with a friend’s.

To read comments on punctuality in other parts of the world, visit www.interchangeinstitute.org/html/comments.htm. Send your responses to copeland@interchangeinstitute.org.

October 2002

Dr Anne P Copeland is founder and Executive Director of The Interchange Institute, a non-profit organisation in Brookline, MA, that conducts research on and supports families moving from one country to another. Learn about their research and writing activities, their books (including Understanding American Schools), Newcomer’s Almanac newsletter, Welcome Files, and training workshops at www.interchangeinstitute.org.