FOOT-DRAGGING Synonyms: 22 Similar and Opposite Words

foot-dragging

noun

Definition of foot-dragging

as in delay

failure to do something quickly because you do not want to do it bureaucrats criticized for foot-dragging on important issues

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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.

Recent Examples of foot-dragging While progress has been made, the bloc is still impeded by both energy needs and foot-dragging member states. — Dominique Soguel, Christian Science Monitor, 24 Nov. 2025 One reason for the foot-dragging is that the power with Japan’s patriarchy is strong. — William Pesek, Forbes.com, 19 July 2025 There is a famed story about Campos, eyeing the boys foot-dragging, taking them out back and teaching them how to march. — Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 17 Jan. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for foot-dragging

delay

Noun

But the heat has led to cancellations and delays in several states.

— Jeanine Santucci, USA Today, 4 July 2026
The city commission reached a major step forward on the project after months of delays and disagreements over the best way to replace the old City Hall, which was damaged beyond repair by the historic flooding of April 2023.

— Amanda Rosa, Miami Herald, 3 July 2026

Definition of delay

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foot

foot-dragging

foot-draggings

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“Foot-dragging.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/foot-dragging. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of foot-dragging

noun

Example Sentences

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