late vs belated

[Infin1ty]

Hi everyone,

Would you please tell me what's the difference between late and belate? Could I replace belated in the below sentence by late?

I'm sorry for this belated reply.

I'm sorry for this late reply.

Does it make sense if I say:

I'm sorry for late reply.

Thanks in advance.

Please correct me if you find any mistakes in my post.
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Please feel free to correct me if you find any mistakes in my posts.

[Mister Micawber]

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These are OK:

I'm sorry for this belated reply.
I'm sorry for this late reply.
I'm sorry for my/this late reply.

'Belated' is a rather old-fashioned word now, and sounds rather stilted in other than formal congratulations and condolences.
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Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's

[Infin1ty]

:D Thank you Mister Micawber. Could you also tell me if it sounds more formal if I say: 'my apologizes' or 'I appreciate' rather than 'I'm sorry' or 'thank you'? Do they sound sound stilted? Many thanks! :)
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Please feel free to correct me if you find any mistakes in my posts.

[Mister Micawber]

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'My apologies'.

Yes, those are a bit more formal, but not stilted. Much depends on who is receiving the message.
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Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's

[Infin1ty]

Thanks again, Mister Micawber.
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Please feel free to correct me if you find any mistakes in my posts.

[Cerberus™]

Usually you would not say "I appreciate" without an object: rather "I appreciate your help" or "I appreciate it", or whatever you are appreciating.

[Infin1ty]

Hi Cerberus™, I appreciate your kind help! : )
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Please feel free to correct me if you find any mistakes in my posts.

[Cerberus™]

Hehe, I appreciate your quick learning!