Temporizer: meaning, definitions and examples

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temporizer

 

[ ˈtɛm.pə.raɪ.zər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

general use

A temporizer is a person or device that delays or postpones something, often to gain time or avoid making a decision. In a political context, it refers to someone who avoids making a definitive decision and prefers to take their time before acting.

Synonyms

ditherer, procrastinator, stalling tactics.

Examples of usage

  • The meeting was delayed by a temporizer who wanted to avoid difficult questions.
  • She's such a temporizer when it comes to making plans.
  • As a temporizer, he always finds ways to stall negotiations.

Translations

Translations of the word "temporizer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 temporizador

🇮🇳 टाइमर

🇩🇪 Timer

🇮🇩 pengatur waktu

🇺🇦 таймер

🇵🇱 timer

🇯🇵 タイマー

🇫🇷 temporisateur

🇪🇸 temporizador

🇹🇷 zamanlayıcı

🇰🇷 타이머

🇸🇦 مؤقت

🇨🇿 časovač

🇸🇰 časovač

🇨🇳 计时器

🇸🇮 časovnik

🇮🇸 tími

🇰🇿 таймер

🇬🇪 ტაიმერი

🇦🇿 sayğac

🇲🇽 temporizador

Etymology

The word 'temporizer' originates from the Latin root 'tempus', which means 'time'. The term evolved in the English language during the late 19th century, initially referring to anyone or anything that would pause or procrastinate in various situations. It’s often used in contexts where someone is seen actively avoiding a conclusive stance, especially in negotiations or decisions. Over time, the meaning has shifted slightly to embody not only procrastination but also strategic delay. This nuance reflects the complexities of human interaction and decision-making, where sometimes waiting can be a calculated tactic. The suffix '-izer' indicates the agent performing the action, thus emphasizing the role of the individual or mechanism in creating or perpetuating delay.