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

"It's a waiting game and there's not really much we can do about it," she added.

From BBC • Apr. 20, 2026

For John Winston Isidro, life aboard his VLCC, or Very Large Crude Carrier, has been marked by equal parts monotony and precaution since his ship began playing the waiting game.

From Barron's • Mar. 12, 2026

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

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 5, 2025

For now, Guittard says he will have to play the waiting game and see how it unfolds.

From Los Angeles Times • May 15, 2025

Then I relaxed a bit; work had to be done and I would play the waiting game.

From "Invisible Man" by Ralph Ellison