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Stalling: meaning, definitions and examples

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stalling

 

[ ˈstɔːlɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

delaying tactics

Stalling refers to the act of delaying or postponing an action or decision, often to gain time or avoid an immediate outcome. This tactic is commonly employed in various situations, such as negotiations, sports, or everyday conversations. It can be used strategically to allow for better preparation or to assess the situation before proceeding. In some contexts, stalling may have negative connotations, implying deceit or failure to take responsibility.

Synonyms

dawdling, delaying, hesitating, postponing, procrastinating

Examples of usage

  • He was stalling during the meeting, trying to buy time.
  • The player was stalling to let the clock run down.
  • She kept stalling on making a decision about the job offer.

Translations

Translations of the word "stalling" in other languages:

🇵🇹 adiamento

🇮🇳 टालना

🇩🇪 Zögern

🇮🇩 menunda

🇺🇦 зволікання

🇵🇱 opóźnienie

🇯🇵 遅延 (ちえん)

🇫🇷 retardement

🇪🇸 demora

🇹🇷 geciktirme

🇰🇷 지연 (지연)

🇸🇦 تأجيل

🇨🇿 zpoždění

🇸🇰 oneskorenie

🇨🇳 拖延 (tuōyán)

🇸🇮 odlog

🇮🇸 fresta

🇰🇿 кешіктіру

🇬🇪 გადავადება

🇦🇿 təxirə salma

🇲🇽 retraso

Word origin

The word 'stalling' derives from the root word 'stall,' which can be traced back to Old English 'stal,' meaning a stand or place where animals were kept. Over time, the verb 'to stall' evolved to mean stopping or halting, particularly in relation to vehicles or machinery failing to function correctly. The transition to its contemporary meaning—delaying or postponing—occurred in the 20th century as it became associated with various social and behavioral contexts. Today, 'stalling' is frequently used in both informal conversations and formal discourse, emphasizing its wide applicability in everyday life.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,002, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.