temporize

(tem′pə rīz′)

to suit one's actions to the time, occasion, or circumstances, without reference to principle
1. to give temporary compliance or agreement, evade immediate decision, etc., so as to gain time or avoid argument
2. to parley or deal (with a person, etc.) so as to gain time
to effect a compromise (with a person, etc., or between persons or parties); negotiate

Origin: Fr temporiser < ML temporizare < L tempus, time: see temper

Related Forms:

See temporize in American Heritage Dictionary 4

intransitive verb tem·po·rized, tem·po·riz·ing, tem·po·riz·es

To act evasively in order to gain time, avoid argument, or postpone a decision: “Colonial officials . . . ordered to enforce unpopular enactments, tended to temporize, to find excuses for evasion” (J.H. Parry).
To engage in discussions or negotiations, especially so as to achieve a compromise or gain time.
To yield to current circumstances or necessities; act to suit the time.

Origin:

Origin: French temporiser

Origin: , from Old French

Origin: , from Medieval Latin temporizāre, to pass one's time

Origin: , from Latin tempus, tempor-, time

Related Forms: