Dilatory
hardNegative toneDIL-uh-tor-ee
adjective
Definition
Slow to act; intended to cause delay
Memory hook
DELAY-TORY: intended to cause DELAY — slow and procrastinating on purpose.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The dilatory tactics of the defense prolonged the trial for months.”
“His dilatory approach to deadlines jeopardized the project.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The ______ tactics of the defense prolonged the trial for months.”
Show answer
dilatory
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Dilatory is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "tardy" or "procrastinating" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "prompt".
Related GRE Words
torpid
Mentally or physically inactive; lethargic
anachronism
Something that is out of place in terms of historical or chronological context
antediluvian
Of or belonging to the time before the biblical Flood; ridiculously old-fashioned
evanescent
Soon passing out of sight, memory, or existence; quickly fading or disappearing
inert
lacking the power to move or act; sluggish or chemically inactive
languid
lacking energy or vigor; slow and relaxed
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