# play for time

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/play-for-time
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To delay a situation until one is prepared.

## Examples

- He tried to play for time by asking more questions.
- The politician played for time during the interview until his team could prepare a better answer.
- Realizing the negotiations were failing, the diplomat played for time, hoping that a sudden change in the political climate would grant them a strategic advantage.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.