"Played for time" is a idiomatic phrase that refers to deliberately delaying or prolonging a situation or action in order to gain more time for a particular purpose. It implies using tactics or strategies to avoid making an immediate decision or taking action, often with the intention of gaining an advantage or seeking a more favorable outcome in the future.
This phrase is commonly used in various contexts, such as negotiations, debates, or conflicts, where individuals or parties may employ stalling tactics to buy more time for further planning, thinking, or gathering information. "Played for time" can also be seen as a defensive measure to maintain a status quo or prevent an unwanted development from taking place, primarily by delaying the progress or resolution of an issue.
The strategy of playing for time can involve several techniques, like prolonging discussions, raising objections, requesting additional data, or presenting incomplete information, all aimed at extending the time frame and placing the outcome in the future. It is often a way to gain a psychological or tactical advantage over opponents, allowing further assessment or strategizing to ensure a more successful outcome.
However, "played for time" can also be used in a negative sense, suggesting a manipulative behavior where someone intentionally delays making decisions or taking responsibility in order to evade accountability or hide their intentions. This phrase emphasizes the act of deliberately stretching out a situation, sometimes beyond necessity or reason, for personal gain, convenience, or to avoid facing consequences.
