Simple late reply
Use when you finally have the answer.
Hi Jordan — sorry for the delay getting back to you. Yes, Thursday at 10 still works. See you then.
Sorry for the delay / late reply
Need a “sorry for the delay” or late reply text to a client? You saw their message late. Apologize once, then answer what they asked — don’t pad it with excuses.
Keep the apology short. The answer is the point.
Missed it over the weekend
They wrote Friday. You’re answering Monday.
Hi Alex — sorry I missed this over the weekend. I’m free Wednesday afternoon or Friday morning if either still works for you.
Took longer than it should
Own it without a long story.
Sorry this took longer than it should. I have the quote ready — $180 for the visit. Want me to hold a day this week?