vs
QUICK ANSWER
"Tarde" is an adverb which is often translated as "late", and "tardío" is an adjective which is also often translated as "late". Learn more about the difference between "tarde" and "tardío" below.
tarde, la tarde(
tahr
-
deh
)An adverb is a word that describes a verb, an adjective, or other adverbs (e.g., to run quickly, very tired).
A feminine noun is almost always used with feminine articles and adjectives (e.g., la mujer bonita, la luna llena).
a. afternoon (from noon until sunset)
Esta tarde me voy de compras con mis amigas.I'm going shopping with my friends this afternoon.
b. evening (around sunset)
Te veré esta tarde después del trabajo.I'll see you this evening after work.
tardío(
tahr
-
dee
-
oh
)An adjective is a word that describes a noun (e.g., the big dog).
a. late
Bach, el compositor, es un digno representante del barroco tardío.Bach, the composer, is a worthy representative of the late Baroque.
2. (delayed)
a. belated
Disculpas por mi felicitación de cumpleaños tardía.I'm sorry for my belated birthday wishes.
a. late
Parece que este año las lechugas serán tardías por el clima.It seems like the lettuce will be late because of the weather this year.