延期をする

This is a classic 'suru' verb, which makes it easy to use.

Take the noun 延期 (postponement) and add する (to do).

You can include the particle を in the middle for clarity.

Or you can just say 延期する for a quicker, more natural feel.

In a sentence, it looks like: [Event] + を + 延期する.

For example, 会議を延期する means 'postpone the meeting.'

It works for dates, deadlines, and even large-scale events like weddings.

Use this when external factors ruin your original plans.

Maybe a typhoon is heading toward your outdoor concert.

Maybe you caught a nasty cold before a big coffee date.

It is perfect for professional settings like office emails.

You can also use it when you are overwhelmed with work.

'I need more time' is the core message here.

It sounds responsible and clear to the person waiting for you.

Don't use this if you are canceling something forever.

If the event is dead and buried, use 中止する instead.

Also, avoid using it for very short, momentary delays.

If you are five minutes late to a lunch, don't say 延期.

That is just being late, which is 遅刻 (chikoku).

延期 usually implies moving things to a different day or week.

Using it for a 10-minute delay sounds very strange and dramatic.

Japan is famous for its strict punctuality and rigid schedules.

Because of this, 延期をする is actually a fairly heavy phrase.

It often comes paired with a sincere apology like 申し訳ありません.

Rescheduling affects everyone else's complex calendars in Japan.

However, it is seen as much better than a total cancellation.

It shows you still value the commitment you made to the other person.

In business, it's often phrased as a polite request rather than a command.

To sound less like it's your fault, use 延期になる.

This means 'it has been postponed' (as if by fate or circumstance).

It's a great way to avoid taking all the personal blame.

For a very formal setting, try 延期させていただきます.

This is the 'humbled' version used with bosses or important clients.

In casual chat, you might just say あとにずらす.

This feels more like 'shifting' the time than a formal postponement.