The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

dilatory

IPA:

Dictionary definition of dilatory

Characterized by a tendency to delay, procrastinate, or be slow in taking action.
"His dilatory response to the urgent email led to unnecessary delays."

Detailed meaning of dilatory

It refers to behaviors, actions, or processes that intentionally or habitually cause a delay, often resulting in inefficiency, postponed tasks, or missed opportunities. A person or entity exhibiting "dilatory" traits might intentionally put off tasks, decisions, or responsibilities, causing frustration or hindrance to progress. This term is often used to express disapproval or criticism of actions that hinder timely and effective completion of tasks or objectives, implying a lack of promptness and an inclination towards procrastination.

Example sentences containing dilatory

1. The employee's dilatory approach to completing tasks was frustrating to the entire team.
2. The student's dilatory study habits resulted in poor academic performance.
3. The company's dilatory payment of invoices strained their relationships with suppliers.
4. She was known for her dilatory tendencies when it came to making important decisions.
5. The dilatory maintenance of the machinery resulted in frequent breakdowns.
6. The manager reprimanded the employee for his dilatory attendance at meetings.

History and etymology of dilatory

The adjective 'dilatory' traces its origins to Latin, specifically from the word 'dilatorius,' which is derived from 'dilatus,' meaning 'delayed' or 'procrastinated.' In Latin, 'dilatorius' described something that was characterized by delay or procrastination. It conveys the idea of being slow or hesitant in taking action. As the term was adopted into English, it retained this fundamental meaning, describing actions or behaviors characterized by a tendency to delay, procrastinate, or be slow in taking action. The etymology of 'dilatory' underscores the concept of delay or procrastination, emphasizing the inclination to postpone or defer tasks or decisions rather than addressing them promptly.

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Further usage examples of dilatory

1. The contractor's dilatory progress on the construction project exceeded the expected timeline.
2. The student's dilatory behavior caused him to miss the submission deadline.
3. Her dilatory preparations for the event caused unnecessary last-minute stress.
4. The court criticized the defendant's dilatory tactics to prolong the legal proceedings.
5. The airline's dilatory response to customer complaints damaged its reputation.
6. Despite the urgency of the situation, the government's response was dilatory.
7. The committee's dilatory approach to decision-making hindered progress on the project.
8. The dilatory pace of negotiations frustrated both parties involved.
9. His dilatory attitude towards seeking medical treatment worsened his health condition.
10. The dilatory approval process for permits delayed the start of the construction project.
11. The CEO was determined to eliminate any dilatory practices within the organization.
12. The teacher's frustration grew as she observed the students' dilatory completion of assignments.
13. The team leader implemented stricter deadlines to prevent dilatory tendencies among team members.
14. His dilatory approach to deadlines often frustrated his colleagues.
15. She adopted a dilatory attitude when it came to making decisions.
16. The dilatory response from the government left citizens anxious.
17. Their dilatory service led to customer complaints piling up.
18. The dilatory pace of the project caused delays and cost overruns.
19. He faced consequences for his dilatory work habits at the office.
20. The employee's dilatory behavior hindered team productivity.
21. The dilatory negotiations strained diplomatic relations.
22. Her dilatory preparation left her unprepared for the exam.
23. The company suffered due to its dilatory product launch.