1. to delay making a decision or taking action in order to gain time
Usage: British spelling; third person singular present
2. to adapt one’s behavior to circumstances or prevailing opinion
Usage: British spelling; third person singular present; formal

Examples

• The politician temporises when asked about controversial policies.
• She temporises rather than giving a direct answer to difficult questions.
• The committee temporises while waiting for more information.
• He temporises with his critics to avoid confrontation.
• The manager temporises when faced with budget cuts.
• The diplomat temporises during sensitive negotiations.