Postpone: meaning, definitions and examples

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

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

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

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

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?