German Phrase
Das Projekt liegt hinter dem Zeitplan.
Meaning
The sentence states that a project is not progressing as fast as planned; it is running later than intended, i.e., it is behind schedule.
When to use
Use this phrase in business meetings, project status updates, or any situation where you need to report that a timeline is not being met.
✦Grammar Breakdown
DasProjektliegthinterdemZeitplan.
Definite article (neuter)
"Das" is the nominative neuter definite article used with "Projekt".
Verb "liegen"
"liegen" (3rd person singular: liegt) is used to describe a static state or location, here figuratively for schedule status.
Preposition "hinter" + dative
When "hinter" indicates a fixed position, it governs the dative case; therefore "dem" is used.
Dative masculine article
"dem" is the dative masculine singular article that matches "Zeitplan".
🗨In Conversation
Wie läuft das Projekt?
How is the project going?
Das Projekt liegt hinter dem Zeitplan.
The project is behind schedule.
✕Common Mistakes
Das Projekt liegt hinter den Zeitplan.
With a static location, "hinter" requires the dative case, not accusative.
Das Projekt ist hinter dem Zeitplan.
"sein" is less idiomatic for a location; "liegen" is the natural verb here.
↔Alternatives
Das Projekt ist im Verzug.
The project is delayed.
Wir liegen hinter dem Zeitplan.
We are behind schedule.
Der Zeitplan wird nicht eingehalten.
The schedule is not being met.
Cultural Tip
In German business culture punctuality and meeting deadlines are highly valued. Admitting a delay openly, as in this phrase, is common, but it is expected that you also suggest a corrective plan or next steps.