waiting game

American  

noun

1. a stratagem in which action on a matter is reserved for or postponed to a later time, allowing one to wait for a more advantageous time to act or to see what develops in the meantime.

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waiting game British  

noun

1. the postponement of action or decision in order to gain the advantage

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waiting game Idioms  

1. see play a waiting game.

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Etymology

Origin of waiting game

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

For the past few years, housing has been a waiting game, as buyers balk at record-high prices and sellers hold off on listing their homes until activity returns.

From The Wall Street Journal

“There is more of a waiting game that occurs for the best value and best promotion.”

From The Wall Street Journal

Momentum has slowed as residents sink into a waiting game while they vie for permit approval, decide whether to return or grapple with new and ongoing unknowns.

From Los Angeles Times

Reflecting on Mr Bush's guilty plea in relation to her family, she said she felt "mixed emotions" because other families were "playing a waiting game" for next year's trial.

From BBC

At the moment, though, it's a waiting game.

From BBC