putoff
Definition
- Noun:
- A pretext for delay or inaction: A reason or excuse given to justify postponing or avoiding an action, decision, or event.
Usage
- The word "putoff" is a noun used to describe a stated reason for delaying something, which may or may not be the true reason. It implies an avoidance of immediate action.
Examples
- Noun:
- His claim of a scheduling conflict was just a putoff to avoid the difficult meeting.
- Don't accept another putoff; we need a final answer today.
Advanced Usage
- "A series of putoffs": Multiple consecutive excuses for delay.
- The project was stalled by a series of putoffs from the client.
Variants and Related Words
- Put off (phrasal verb): To postpone or delay something; to cause someone to feel dislike or reluctance.
- We had to put off the trip until next month.
- His arrogant attitude put me off.
Synonyms
- Excuse: A reason or explanation given to justify a fault or offense.
- Pretext: A reason given to conceal the real reason for an action.
- Stall: A pretext or delaying tactic.
Antonyms
- Prompting: The action of encouraging or urging someone to do something.
- Incentive: A thing that motivates or encourages action.
Related Phrases
- As a putoff: Functioning as an excuse for delay.
- She used the weather as a putoff.
Noun
-
a pretext for delay or inaction
