a stall tactic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a stall tactic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a strategy or action intended to delay or postpone a decision or action. Example: "The negotiations were dragging on, and it became clear that his proposal was merely a stall tactic to buy more time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

"It's a stall tactic".

The New York Times

The Jets, when asked if that constituted a stall tactic, deferred questions to the Broncos.

The New York Times - Sports

But John Freeman, an industry analyst, sees the effort as a stall tactic.

The New York Times

Speaking to the Washington Post, Leviston's attorney, Elizabeth Austin, said she believed Jackson's bankruptcy was simply a stall tactic.

Independent

Now Dowd is trying to have the case dismissed, a move Rose's attorney, Martin Garbus calls a stall tactic.

The Guardian - Sport

"Hopefully, this is not just a stall tactic or some negotiation ploy at the expense of clean athletes and the integrity of sport".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

This would be only a stalling tactic, though.

The New York Times

Instead, he said, "It is purely a stalling tactic".

The New York Times

Silence is a stalling tactic, and silence is a cop-out.

The New York Times

But the F.D.A.'s drug division views the company's request as a stalling tactic.

The New York Times - Health

The suggestion prompted organizers from Local 802 to protest, saying it was a stalling tactic.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a stall tactic", clearly identify who is employing the tactic and what they are trying to delay. This adds clarity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "a stall tactic" repeatedly in a single piece of writing. Vary your language with synonyms like "delaying maneuver" or "procrastination strategy" /s/procrastination+strategy for a more engaging read.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a stall tactic" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI suggests, it describes a specific type of strategy.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a stall tactic" is a noun phrase used to describe a deliberate strategy of delay. According to Ludwig AI, it's considered grammatically correct and usable in written English. Its usage is common, particularly in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts. When writing, it is beneficial to clearly identify who is employing the tactic and what they are trying to delay and avoid overusing the phrase in a single piece of writing. Alternatives such as "delaying maneuver" or "procrastination strategy" can be utilized. Ludwig's examples indicate that the phrase often carries a negative connotation, implying that the delay is manipulative or insincere.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a delaying maneuver

Emphasizes the strategic aspect of the delay.

a delaying action

Highlights the act of intentionally delaying.

a time-buying strategy

Focuses on the goal of gaining additional time.

a procrastination strategy

Focuses on intentionally postponing action.

a postponement ploy

Highlights the deceptive nature of the delay.

a temporizing measure

Highlights a temporary solution to gain time.

an obstructionist approach

Suggests a deliberate attempt to block progress.

a stonewalling strategy

Implies resistance and refusal to cooperate.

a circumvention technique

Suggests avoiding a direct confrontation or decision.

a wait-and-see approach

Focuses on delaying action to observe developments.

FAQs

What does "a stall tactic" mean?

"A stall tactic" refers to a maneuver or strategy used to intentionally delay or postpone an action, decision, or process.

How can I use "a stall tactic" in a sentence?

You can use it like this: "The company's request for more information was seen as "a stall tactic" to avoid making a decision."

What are some alternatives to "a stall tactic"?

Alternatives include "delaying maneuver", "procrastination strategy", or "temporizing measure".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a stall tactic"?

It's appropriate when you want to describe a deliberate effort to postpone or delay something, often with the implication that the delay is strategic or deceptive.