Temporize: meaning, definitions and examples
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temporize
[ ˈtɛmpəraɪz ]
delaying action
To temporize means to delay or procrastinate, often in order to gain time or avoid making a decision. It can refer to a strategy of hesitating or postponing in negotiations or discussions to seek a more favorable outcome. This term is frequently used in political or diplomatic contexts, where parties may temporize to avoid confrontation or to further discussion until better circumstances arise.
Synonyms
delay, dither, postpone, procrastinate, stall
Examples of usage
- The leaders decided to temporize until the public opinion shifted.
- Rather than making a decision, he chose to temporize, hoping the issue would resolve itself.
- The committee temporized, leading to a prolonged debate on the topic.
Translations
Translations of the word "temporize" in other languages:
🇵🇹 temporizar
🇮🇳 अवकाश लेना
🇩🇪 Zeit gewinnen
🇮🇩 menunda
🇺🇦 грати на час
🇵🇱 opóźniać
🇯🇵 時間を稼ぐ
🇫🇷 temporiser
🇪🇸 temporizar
🇹🇷 geciktirmek
🇰🇷 시간을 벌다
🇸🇦 تأجيل
🇨🇿 získat čas
🇸🇰 získať čas
🇨🇳 拖延
🇸🇮 čas pridobiti
🇮🇸 tíma
🇰🇿 уақытты ұту
🇬🇪 დროის გაწვდილი
🇦🇿 vaxt qazanmaq
🇲🇽 tomar tiempo
Etymology
The word 'temporize' originated in the early 19th century, deriving from the Latin word 'temporizare', which means to 'adapt to the times' or 'to delay.' It is formed from the root 'tempus,' meaning 'time.' The term reflects a strategic approach, often employed in situations where one party seeks to gain an advantage by not committing to a specific stance. Over time, 'temporize' has evolved to encompass various contexts, including politics, business negotiations, and everyday decision-making, where delaying an action can lead to more favorable outcomes. The concept of temporizing is particularly pertinent in scenarios involving complex interpersonal dynamics or negotiations, where the ramifications of immediate action may not be beneficial. As such, the usage of 'temporize' has maintained relevance in contemporary language, particularly in discussions surrounding strategy and decision-making.