Spanish phrase
¿Por qué tarda ~?
Meaning
Why is ___ taking so long?
When to use it
Asks why something is taking longer than expected. Used to ask politely about delays in events, transport, or people's actions, sometimes showing mild frustration.
Example dialogue
¿Por qué tarda tanto el tren?
Why is the train taking so long?
Hubo un fallo en la señalización; saldrá en veinte minutos.
There was a signaling failure; it will depart in twenty minutes.