tão frequentemente atrasado

You use it as an adjective phrase. It usually follows the verb estar (to be). For example: Ele está tão frequentemente atrasado. You can also use it to describe a situation. It fits perfectly when you are venting. Or when you are simply stating a fact. Remember to match the gender. For a woman, use atrasada. For a group, use atrasados.

Use it when a friend misses the movie start. Use it when a colleague ruins the meeting flow. It is great for performance reviews. It works well in casual gossip too. Use it when the bus never arrives on time. It is a very descriptive and clear expression.

Do not use it for a one-off delay. If someone is late once, just use atrasado. Avoid it if you want to be very brief. In a rush, sempre atrasado (always late) is faster. Do not use it if you are the one late. It makes your excuse sound like a confession!

Time in Portuguese-speaking cultures can be flexible. This is often called 'Brazilian time' or 'Portuguese time'. However, being tão frequentemente atrasado still carries a stigma. It implies a lack of respect for others. In business, punctuality is becoming much more strict. Using this phrase shows you notice the social contract. It marks the line between 'fashionably late' and 'annoyingly late'.

You might hear sempre atrasado for 'always late'. Another common one is constantemente atrasado. If you want to be slangy, use furão. That implies someone who 'flakes' or skips out. But tão frequentemente atrasado remains the most descriptive version. It sounds balanced and observant.