Temporizer

A temporizer is a person who avoids making a decision or taking a firm stand on an issue, often to gain time or to evade conflict. They employ delay tactics, compromise, and sometimes even deceit to postpone action and maintain a semblance of neutrality. This behavior is frequently motivated by a desire to preserve a favorable position, avoid repercussions, or wait for more advantageous circumstances. Temporizing can involve ambiguous statements, equivocation, and a reluctance to commit to a specific course of action. The term implies a degree of hesitancy and opportunism in response to pressure or difficult choices.

Temporizer meaning with examples

• The politician, a seasoned temporizer, skillfully dodged questions about the controversial bill, promising further consideration but ultimately avoiding a definitive yes or no. This allowed them to gauge public opinion and appease various factions before committing to a specific stance, gaining political leverage.
• Faced with the sudden economic downturn, the company's CEO proved to be a master temporizer, putting off layoffs and cost cuts, hoping the crisis would resolve itself. His hesitance ultimately caused a steeper decline in revenue and profit margins, damaging the company's overall standing.
• The negotiator acted as a clever temporizer, stretching out the talks to outlast his adversary and tire their resolve. By giving vague, yet optimistic answers, he stalled until a more favorable bargaining position developed. The opposing side, increasingly impatient, began to give ground.
• When confronted with rumors about his involvement in the scandal, the celebrity played the role of a practiced temporizer, making no comments and issuing confusing statements. This allowed the media to shift its focus and prevent any immediate damage to his public image and reputation.
• During the family feud, the mediator was a patient temporizer. Rather than jumping to conclusions, she took her time and listened to both sides of the dispute. This slow process allowed the participants to cool down, allowing a path to peaceful solutions.