dilatory

Dilatory is an adjective describing a tendency to delay or be slow to act. It can refer to people, responses, procedures, or tactics that introduce unnecessary postponement or hinder progress. In general usage, a dilatory action is one that is slower than needed, often because of hesitation, procrastination, or deliberate stalling. In formal contexts, the term can carry a pejorative nuance when delay is seen as intentional or obstructive, rather than merely accidental.

Etymology and sense developments: The word comes from Latin dilatorius, meaning “causing delay,” from dilatus, meaning “carried aside, postponed,” related to differre, “to postpone.” The sense broadened in English to describe behavior, measures, or processes that purposefully or habitually slow things down.

Contexts and examples: In everyday speech, a dilatory reply or a dilatory approach can frustrate others and slow decision-making. In legal settings, a dilatory motion or tactic seeks to delay court proceedings and is often subject to scrutiny or sanctions if used to obstruct justice. In administration or governance, dilatory procedures can impede implementation of programs or reforms.

Related terms and contrasts: Dilatoriness is the noun form, referring to the quality or state of being dilatory. Related concepts include procrastination, tardiness, delay, and obstruction. Antonyms include prompt, expeditious, and timely, which describe actions that proceed without unnecessary delay.

See also: procrastination, tardiness, delay, legal procedures, administrative efficiency.