waiting game

noun

wait·​ing game ˈwā-tiŋ- How to pronounce waiting game (audio)
: a strategy in which one or more participants withhold action temporarily in the hope of having a favorable opportunity for more effective action later

Examples of waiting game in a Sentence

Until they make their decision, we're just playing a waiting game.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The waiting game is over thanks to retailers’ early savings events, and that includes Wayfair, which just dropped its official Black Friday sale starting right now. Lauren Fischer, People.com, 21 Nov. 2024 The waiting game with Kevin Love will continue for the Miami Heat at least through Wednesday night's game against the Phoenix Suns. Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 5 Nov. 2024 For at least hundreds of Venezuelans in Austin, Monday was a waiting game. Emiliano Tahui Gómez, Austin American-Statesman, 30 July 2024 Thus, restricted free agents such as Cleveland’s Isaac Okoro are playing a waiting game, hoping for an offer sheet that might not ever come and left with playing chicken against the Cavs’ front office. John Hollinger, The Athletic, 9 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for waiting game 

Word History

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of waiting game was in 1850

Dictionary Entries Near waiting game

Cite this Entry

“Waiting game.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/waiting%20game. Accessed 15 Dec. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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