手遅れ

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 手遅れ(ておくれ) means that the time for effective action has already passed.
• Basic usage: It is used when a problem is noticed too late or when repairs or other action are needed before it is too late.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• More than arriving late
  • 遅刻 means being late for an appointed time; 手遅れ means missing the appropriate time to take necessary action.