Of heavy traffic
Because is not a preposition, it's a conjunction.The definition of because is for the reason that. So, something happens because of something else.The start of the school year was delayed five days because Tropical Storm Irene knocked out power. No punctuation is needed with because in that sentence. However, when because comes at the beginning of the sentence, a comma is needed after the clause.Because Tropical Storm Irene knocked out power, the start of the school year was delayed five days.
Of heavy traffic
No, "delayed" is not a compound word. It is a single word that is formed from the root word "delay."
Our expedition to the Artic was delayed because of the weather.
The decision process is being delayed because fresh data is still flooding in.
Due to a major thunderstorm, our flight back home was delayed.
The ratification of the treaty was delayed.
The project is to be delayed, indefinitely.
I was delayed by the heavy traffic in the midtown area.
No. It's not necessary.
It means the sentence is halted/delayed for a brief period.