dilatory Definition
- 1slow to act
- 2intended to cause delay
Using dilatory: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "dilatory" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
His dilatory response to the crisis was criticized by many.
Example
The company's dilatory tactics in addressing customer complaints led to a loss of business.
Example
She was fired for her dilatory work habits.
Example
The dilatory pace of the negotiations frustrated everyone involved.
dilatory Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for dilatory
Antonyms for dilatory
Phrases with dilatory
dilatory tactics
actions or strategies intended to cause delay or procrastination
Example
The opposition party accused the government of using dilatory tactics to avoid addressing the issue.
dilatory measures
steps taken to slow down or delay a process or action
Example
The company implemented dilatory measures to avoid paying its debts on time.
Example
Her dilatory behavior at work led to her being demoted.
Origins of dilatory
from Latin 'dilatorius', meaning 'procrastinating'
Summary: dilatory in Brief
'Dilatory' [ˈdɪlət(ə)ri] describes someone or something that is slow to act or intended to cause delay. It can refer to a person's work habits, as in 'She was fired for her dilatory work habits,' or to a company's tactics, as in 'The company's dilatory tactics in addressing customer complaints led to a loss of business.' 'Dilatory' extends into phrases like 'dilatory measures,' and informal expressions like 'dragging one's feet,' denoting a lack of urgency.