buy time

phrase

: to delay an imminent action or decision : stall

Examples of buy time in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In essence, revenue creates resilience and customers create accountability, while grants merely buy time. — Allbusiness, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026 In his playoff debut against Boston, Östlund grabbed a puck in the neutral zone, carried it into the offensive zone with ease and pivoted to buy time in the corner. — Matthew Fairburn, New York Times, 27 July 2026 Parties have exploited lulls in fighting to buy time, rebuild capabilities and consolidate political or territorial gains ahead of the next round of conflict. — Anthony Wanis-St John, The Conversation, 10 July 2026 History demonstrates that Tehran uses negotiations primarily to buy time, relieve pressure, and rebuild its capabilities. — Hussain Abdul-Hussain, The Orlando Sentinel, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for buy time

Word History

First Known Use

1832, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of buy time was in 1832

Rhymes for buy time

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Browse Nearby Words

Buys Ballot's law
buy time
buy up
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Buy time.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/buy%20time. Accessed 3 Aug. 2026.

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