“Dilatory” is an adjective used to describe actions or behaviors that involve causing delay or procrastination. When someone is being dilatory, they intentionally slow down or postpone tasks, decisions, or responses, often leading to inefficiency and unnecessary time-wasting. Such behavior may arise from a lack of motivation, a desire to avoid responsibilities, or a tendency to put off important matters. Dealing with dilatory individuals or situations can be frustrating, as it hampers progress and productivity.
In Indonesian, the equivalent term for “dilatory” is “melambat” or “pengulur waktu.”
10 sample sentences using the term “dilatory”:
- The dilatory attitude of the committee members prolonged the approval process of the project.
- The employee’s dilatory behavior led to missed deadlines and project setbacks.
- The student’s dilatory approach to studying resulted in poor academic performance.
- The company faced financial troubles due to its dilatory response to changing market conditions.
- His dilatory tactics during negotiations only served to irritate the other party.
- The dilatory handling of customer complaints damaged the company’s reputation.
- The judge warned the lawyer against using dilatory tactics to prolong the trial.
- Despite repeated reminders, he remained dilatory in submitting the required paperwork.
- The government’s dilatory approach to addressing environmental issues drew criticism from activists.
- The project’s progress was hindered by the dilatory decision-making process within the organization.
Lists of synonyms, antonyms, related words, phrasal verbs, and idioms for “dilatory”:
Synonyms:
- Procrastinating
- Delaying
- Sluggish
- Slow
- Languid
- Tardy
- Slacking
- Indolent
- Idle
- Neglectful
Antonyms:
- Prompt
- Punctual
- Efficient
- Expedient
- Swift
- Vigorous
- Eager
- Diligent
- Responsible
- Industrious
Related words:
- Procrastination
- Lethargy
- Postponement
- Laxity
- Inaction
- Linger
- Dally
- Drag
- Stalling
- Shilly-shally
Phrasal verbs:
- Drag one’s feet (to be dilatory or hesitant in taking action)
- Put off (to delay or procrastinate on a task)
- Hold up (to cause delay or obstruction)
- Play for time (to engage in dilatory tactics to gain additional time)
- Fall behind (to be dilatory in meeting deadlines)
Idioms:
- Kick the can down the road (to postpone dealing with a problem)
- Slow on the uptake (describing someone who is dilatory in understanding or grasping concepts)
- Drag one’s heels (to be dilatory and slow in taking action)
- Dragging one’s feet (a synonym for being dilatory)
- Time-waster (someone who is dilatory and unproductive)
Conclusion: “Dilatory” serves as a caution against procrastination and the habit of avoiding timely action or decision-making. It highlights the importance of being prompt and efficient in both personal and professional aspects of life. Identifying and addressing dilatory tendencies can lead to increased productivity, improved relationships, and more successful outcomes. By understanding the negative impacts of dilatory behavior, individuals and organizations can work towards fostering a proactive and responsible approach, ultimately achieving their goals more effectively.
