The correct spelling of the phrase "wast late for" is actually "was too late for." The reason for this is because "wast" is an archaic form of the verb "be" (specifically, the second-person singular past tense form), which is no longer used in modern English. The correct pronunciation of "was too late for" is /wɑz tu leɪt fɔr/. So, next time you're tempted to use "wast" in a sentence, remember that it is no longer in use and that "was" is the correct form to use in modern English.
"Wast late for" is an archaic phrase that combines two distinct terms: "wast" and "late for." "Wast" is the second person singular past tense of the verb "to be" in Early Modern English, typically used in the context of the subject "thou." It denotes an action or state of being that occurred in the past. On the other hand, "late for" is a prepositional phrase that describes being delayed or not arriving at a specific time or appointment.
When combined, "wast late for" implies that the subject was delayed or arrived after the designated time during an earlier period. The phrase maintains a historical and literary character since it belongs to a time when the English language was significantly different from its current form and is mostly encountered in classical literature and plays.
This phrase can showcase a sense of urgency, regret, or a missed opportunity. It can be found in old texts, mainly from the Early Modern English era, such as the works of William Shakespeare. It serves to provide historical context and amplify the atmosphere when reading or analyzing literature from that period. Although not commonly used in present-day conversations, understanding archaic phrases like "wast late for" can enrich one's understanding of the evolution of the English language.