The word "temporise" is spelled with a "-ise" ending in British English and a "-ize" ending in American English. The IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) transcription for this word is /ˈtɛmpəraɪz/. The first syllable is pronounced with the short "e" sound as in "tempo," while the second syllable contains a diphthong with the sounds "ai" as in the word "eye." The final "z" sound is pronounced as a voiced phoneme. This word means to act evasively or delay making a decision.
Temporise is a verb that is mainly used in British English and it means to adopt a strategy of deliberately delaying or stalling in order to gain time or avoid making a decision or commitment. It is derived from the word "temporize," which shares a similar meaning.
When someone temporises, they tend to respond evasively or speak vaguely without providing a direct answer. This can be done in order to maintain control over a situation, to manipulate others, or to avoid taking a definite stand. It is often a tactic used in negotiations, diplomacy, or when faced with difficult choices.
Temporising can also be seen as a way of buying time or gathering more information before committing to a decision. By temporising, individuals are able to assess all available options and potential consequences before making a definitive choice. However, it can also be viewed as a way of procrastinating or being indecisive, causing frustration or delay for others involved.
Overall, temporise is a verb that describes the act of delaying or sidestepping a decision or commitment, often through vague or evasive responses. It involves strategic behavior to maneuver or control a situation, and can sometimes be seen as beneficial in order to gather more information or avoid hasty decisions.
To humour or yield to the current of opinion, or to circumstances; to delay.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "temporise" has its origins in the Latin word "tempus", which means "time". In Latin, the verb form "temporizare" emerged, which essentially meant "to pass the time" or "to delay". This Latin term was later borrowed into French as "temporiser" with the same meaning, and eventually made its way into English in the 16th century. The suffix "-ise" added to the Latin root "tempor" signifies the action or process of temporizing, which refers to the act of delaying or avoiding making a decision or taking a clear stance.