Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
to-play-for-time
idiom
/təˈpleɪ fɔːr taɪm/
Definition
An idiomatic expression used to describe a tactic where someone delays or postpones a decision or action to gain more time or to avoid immediate confrontation.
Examples
- When faced with tough questions, the politician tried to play for time, hoping the issue would blow over.
- She was playing for time to gather more information before making a final decision.
Meaning
To engage in a course of action that extends time before a decision must be made; often used to avoid given an answer or committing to a course of action.
Synonyms
- stall
- procrastinate
- delay
- pause for reflection
