to avoid making a decision or committing oneself in order to gain time, to act evasively in order to gain time or delay a decision

Formal and Informal Expressions of temporize

In different contexts, you can replace 'temporize' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'procrastinate, delay' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'drag one's feet, put off' is a commonplace synonym.

temporize: Explore its Definition & Usage

temporize Definition

1to avoid making a decision or committing oneself in order to gain time
2to act evasively in order to gain time or delay a decision

Using temporize: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "temporize" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
He temporized and avoided giving a direct answer.
Example
The politician tried to temporize the issue by changing the subject.
Example
She was accused of temporizing instead of taking action.

temporize Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for temporize

Antonyms for temporize

Phrases with temporize

temporize with
to negotiate or compromise with someone in order to gain time or delay a decision
Example
The company is trying to temporize with the union to avoid a strike.
temporize on
to delay or avoid making a decision about something
Example
The government is temporizing on the issue of climate change.
temporize for time
to delay or avoid making a decision in order to gain more time
Example
The defendant's lawyer is trying to temporize for time in order to build a stronger case.

Origins of temporize

from Old French 'temporiser', from Latin 'tempus', meaning 'time'

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Summary: temporize in Brief

To 'temporize' [ˈtɛmpəraɪz] means to avoid making a decision or committing oneself in order to gain time. It is an evasive tactic used to delay a decision or action. Examples include 'He temporized and avoided giving a direct answer,' and 'The politician tried to temporize the issue by changing the subject.' Synonyms include 'procrastinate,' 'delay,' and 'postpone.'