buy time

/bˈaɪ tˈaɪm/

[phrase]

to buy time

[PHRASE]

to put something off in order to gain more time

What is the origin of the idiom "buy time" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "buy time" is not attributed to a specific event or source. It is a figurative expression that likely emerged from the concept of purchasing or acquiring additional time as a valuable resource. It is frequently used in professional scenarios, such as negotiations, project management, or strategic planning, where buying time allows for further analysis, negotiation, or preparation.

Examples

1. He tried to buy time by saying he hadn't been well.

2. Buying time may serve as a buffer against the negative effects of time stress in part by enhancing perceived control.

3. What we've been able to do is to help markets return to more normal functioning, which has the effect of buying time, buying time for health care professionals, buying time for governments to respond.

4. He believes that number could be doubled with bilateral control and that could buy time, he says, until autonomous vehicles take over the highways.