buys time
Creates a delay
To buy time is to delay an outcome in order to gain more opportunity to prepare, respond, or find a solution.
The phrase implies a temporary measure rather than a permanent fix: The medication won't cure him, but it buys time.
You might buy time by stalling, distracting, or taking stopgap action: She asked irrelevant questions to buy time while her partner escaped.
- triageSeverity-based prioritization
- stallingIntentional delay tactics
- delaying tacticManeuver to postpone progress
- bargainingNegotiating mutually acceptable terms
- procrastinationHabitual task avoidance
brinkmanship · hedging · postponement · stabilization · foot-dragging · distraction · reprieve · contingency planning · holding pattern · holding action · filibuster · counteroffer · deferral · breathing room · damage control · last ditch effort · band-aid solution · temporary fix
buys timeaccelerates
Increases in velocity
rushes · expedites · brings to a head · precipitates · hastens
buys timecommits
Pledges to do
bites the bullet · takes the plunge · decides · makes a move · crosses the Rubicon
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