temporize
temporize
UK[ˈtɛmpərʌɪz]US[ˈtɛmpəˌraɪz]
v
to avoid making a decision or giving a definite answer in order to gain time or delay an event.
v
to comply temporarily with the demands of a situation, often by making concessions.
Morpheme Breakdown
tempor
ize
tempor
time
ize
verb-forming suffix
Etymology
the verb temporize is built directly upon the latin root for time, 'tempor-'. the core logic of the word is to act in relation to time—specifically, to adapt one's actions to the circumstances of the moment, often by introducing delay. the suffix '-ize' transforms this nominal concept into a verb meaning 'to act according to time' or 'to play for time'. this etymological path clearly illustrates the evolution from the literal sense of 'time' to the modern abstract meaning of strategic delay or provisional compliance.
Analysis
Structure: tempor (time) + ize (verb-forming suffix)
tempor originates from latin 'tempus, tempor-' meaning 'time'. ize is a verb-forming suffix from greek '-izein', via latin '-izare' and old french '-iser', meaning 'to make, to become, to practice'.
Examples
faced with a difficult question, the politician chose to temporize rather than give a direct answer.
the manager decided to temporize, hoping market conditions would improve before committing to the deal.
do not temporize any longer; we need a definitive plan by the end of the day.