buy time
Meaning(s)
1. delay or postpone sth to improve outcome
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
buy me some time
Analysis
To 'buy time' is to delay something or put it on hold in order to have more time to use to your advantage: "Can you talk for longer to buy me some time to organise the slides?" This phrase can be used in social and professional contexts and is similar to the phrase 'to kick the can down the road' or to 'play for time'.
Social Examples (Basic)
- I need to think of a way to buy time so I can complete the assignment before the deadline.
- She is on medication which we hope will buy her some more time before she needs surgery.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- Please buy me some time with your boss so I can tell him my business proposal.
- I'd like to extend the lease to buy us some time until the new premises is ready.