Postpone Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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postpone

[pəʊstˈpəʊn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

meeting scheduling

To delay an event or appointment to a later time or date.

Synonyms

defer, delay, put off, reschedule.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
postpone

Use when you want to move an event or an action to a later time or date due to unexpected circumstances or the need for more time. Formal context.

  • The meeting has been postponed until next Monday
  • We need to postpone the project deadline
delay

Used when something is late or slower than expected, often due to external factors. Slightly negative connotation due to inconvenience.

  • The flight was delayed due to bad weather
  • Please don't delay the process further
defer

Applicable in formal settings where making a decision or taking an action is intentionally delayed, usually to await further information or events.

  • The committee decided to defer the decision until next month
  • We will defer the payment to next quarter
put off

Informal way to indicate postponing or delaying something, often used in casual conversation. Can have a slight negative connotation of procrastination.

  • I keep putting off my dentist appointment
  • Let's not put off solving this problem
reschedule

Used when you change the time or date of an event to another set time. Neutral connotation.

  • We will reschedule the meeting for next week
  • Can we reschedule our lunch to Friday?

Examples of usage

  • I need to postpone our meeting until next week.
  • The concert has been postponed due to bad weather.
  • We decided to postpone the deadline for the project submission.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Postponing tasks often relates to procrastination, a psychological behavior where individuals delay actions despite potential negative outcomes.
  • Research shows that people may postpone responsibilities to avoid stress or enhance their focus, leading to mixed results over time.

Pop Culture

  • Many TV shows and movies feature characters who postpone important events, creating suspense or comedy, like delaying a wedding or a big reveal.
  • The concept has become a common plot device in romantic comedies, illustrating how characters struggle with timing in relationships.

Education

  • In academic settings, students often postpone studying for exams, reflecting a broader trend in time management skills.
  • Educators encourage developing a plan to avoid postponement, as it can lead to cramming and increased anxiety before deadlines.

History

  • Postponing events is a common practice in history; for example, many ancient civilizations would delay festivals based on weather patterns or harvests.
  • Political events, like elections, have been postponed throughout history due to crises, demonstrating the impact of timing on governance.

Origin of 'postpone'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin 'postponere,' which means 'to put after.' It's made of two parts: 'post' (after) and 'ponere' (to place).
  • The term has been part of the English language since the 14th century, showing its long-standing presence in communication.

The word 'postpone' originated from the Latin word 'postponere', which means 'to put off' or 'to delay'. It entered the English language in the late 15th century. The concept of postponing events or appointments has been a common practice throughout history to accommodate various circumstances or priorities.


See also: outpost, post, postable, postage, poster, posting, postman, postsecondary, posture, repost.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,373, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.