dilatory
/ˈdɪlət(ə)ɹi/
Group 3Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Slow to act; intended to cause delay GRE
Example in Context
The judge warned counsel that further dilatory tactics would result in sanctions, as the case had already exceeded its allotted timeframe.
Synonyms
slowdelayingsluggish
Etymology
From Latin for delay, it refers to slowness in action.
- dilatorius (Latin) — tending to delay
Memory Aid
⏳Sounds like “delay story”
A storyteller who always DELAYS the punchline — he’s so DILATORY!
Visual Association
🐢A tortoise slowly making its way to the finish line, causing everyone to wait.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “dilatory” mean on the GRE?
dilatory (adjective) means “Slow to act; intended to cause delay”. The judge warned counsel that further dilatory tactics would result in sanctions, as the case had already exceeded its allotted timeframe.
How to remember “dilatory” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “dilatory” sounds like “delay story”. A storyteller who always DELAYS the punchline — he’s so DILATORY!
What are synonyms for “dilatory”?
Common synonyms: slow, delaying, sluggish.