ENGLISH
REFERENCE

stand shilly-shally

idiom
Meaning

To hesitate, vacillate or procrastinate.


Examples
SIMPLE

Stop standing shilly-shally and make a decision.

CONTEXTUAL

We cannot afford to stand shilly-shally while our competitors move ahead with their new project.

COMPLEX

Rather than standing shilly-shally over the minor details of the contract, the board chose to approve the proposal immediately to avoid further delays.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    blow this pop stand

    To exit or remove oneself from a less than exciting location or environment.

  2. 02

    blow this Popsicle stand

    To leave a place, often with anger or anticipation of going somewhere more exciting.

  3. 03

    can't stand

    cannot put up with

  4. 04

    can't stand the sight of

    To hate vehemently; to really despise.

  5. 05

    half-night stand

    A single sexual encounter between two individuals, lasting for less than an entire night, where at least one of the partners has no immediate intention or expectation of establishing a longer-term sexual or romantic relationship.

  6. 06

    not have a leg to stand on

    To lack support, as in an argument, debate, or negotiation.

  7. 07

    one-night stand

    A single sexual encounter between two individuals, where at least one of the partners has no immediate intention or expectation of establishing a longer-term sexual or romantic relationship.

  8. 08

    stand a chance

    To have a chance.

Last updated April 17, 2026