What does “Buy Time” mean?
"Buy time" means to delay or postpone something in order to gain more time.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He tried to buy time by asking for an extension on the deadline.
Example
The politician used a diversion tactic to buy time and avoid answering the question.
Example
The company decided to buy time by implementing temporary measures until a permanent solution could be found
Is “Buy Time” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Buy Time” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Buy Time” effectively in context?
You can use "Buy Time" when you want to delay or postpone something in order to gain more time. It implies using tactics or strategies to extend a deadline or avoid an immediate response. For example, if a student needs more time to complete an assignment, they might ask their teacher for an extension, saying, 'Can I please buy some time and submit it next week?'
- 1Work
The project was behind schedule, so the team decided to buy time by reallocating resources and extending the deadline.
- 2Politics
The politician used a diversion tactic to buy time and avoid answering the question directly.
- 3Problem-solving
The company decided to buy time by implementing temporary measures until a permanent solution could be found.
Similar phrases to “Buy Time”:
Delay tactics
Strategies or actions used to postpone or prolong a situation
Example
The lawyer employed various delay tactics to prolong the trial.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Buy Time” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Buy Time" is unknown.
Is “Buy Time” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Buy Time" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation. People often use it when they need to delay or postpone something in order to gain more time.
What tone does “Buy Time” have?
"Buy Time" conveys a tone of strategic thinking and resourcefulness. It suggests finding ways to extend deadlines or avoid immediate responses in order to create more favorable conditions.
Can “Buy Time” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Buy Time" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of delaying or postponing something to gain more time. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings, negotiations, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He tried to buy time by asking for an extension on the deadline.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Let's buy some time!' to suggest delaying a decision or action.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- postpone
- delay
- procrastinate
- extend
- stretch out
Antonyms
- act immediately
- respond promptly
- meet the deadline
- face the issue head-on
