Retraso vs. demora vs. tardanza
The Spanish words 'retraso', 'demora', and 'tardanza' all refer to delay or hold-up but they are used in slightly different contexts. They can often overlap in some areas, but the primary difference comes from nuance and usage.
Retraso
'Retraso' typically refers to a delay that involves something or someone being late or behind schedule. It is often used to describe an occurrence when something does not transpire within the projected time frame.
El retraso en la entrega del paquete causó inconvenientes.
(The delay in package delivery caused inconveniences.)
La conferencia sufrió un retraso debido a problemas técnicos.
(The conference was delayed due to technical issues.)
Demora
'Demora' is often used when there's a delay because of a longer than expected waiting period. It usually refers to when something takes more time than anticipated.
La demora en el proceso de aprobación fue frustrante.
(The delay in the approval process was frustrating.)
El tren tiene una demora de 30 minutos.
(The train has a 30-minute delay.)
Tardanza
'Tardanza' is another word for delay, specifically referring to being late for an appointment or a meeting. It implicates that someone has arrived later than he/she was expected.
Lamento mi tardanza, pero había mucho tráfico.
(I apologize for my lateness, but there was a lot of traffic.)
Su tardanza en la reunión causó algunas interrupciones.
(His lateness to the meeting caused some disruptions.)
Summary
In summary, while 'retraso', 'demora', and 'tardanza' all mean delay, they each have their unique applications. 'Retraso' pertains mostly to delays related to schedules while 'demora' relates to waiting times exceeding expectations and 'tardanza' commonly refers to someone being late.