# stalling

/ˈstɔɫɪŋ/ (US) · /stˈɔːlɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/stalling
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the act of delaying something on purpose because you are not ready or do not want to do it. It can also mean when an engine suddenly stops working.

For teachers: the deliberate act of delaying an event or decision to gain more time; also refers to the sudden failure of an engine or motor. Uncountable when referring to the general tactic of delay; countable when referring to specific mechanical failures.

## Examples

- His constant questions were just a stalling tactic.
- The negotiator accused the other side of stalling to avoid signing the final agreement before the deadline.
- While the pilot managed to prevent the plane from stalling during the steep climb, the technical crew later identified a fuel injection error as the primary cause of the power loss.

## Usage notes

- Often appears in the compound noun 'stalling tactic'.

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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.