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dally - To do something slowly or too slowly; to waste time

Ike had dozens of reports to read through, but he decided to dally in the office for most of the day instead of doing his work.

verb

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defuse - To reduce the tension or danger in a difficult situation.

The mediator worked hard to defuse the conflict and tension between the two sides that were trying to negotiate an agreement.

noun

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impasse - A situation where no progress is possible due to disagreement or a deadlock.

The peace talks reached an impasse when neither side was willing to compromise.

adjective

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stagnate - Cease developing; become inactive or dull

The stagnating economy had left workers nervous about keeping their jobs.

verb

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linger - To stay in a place longer than necessary, typically because of a reluctance to leave

The waiter and waitress staff needed to head home, but they first had to wait for the lingering customers to leave.

noun

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limbo - An uncertain period of awaiting a decision or resolution; an intermediate state or condition

Because Ian had so much trouble making decisions, he often felt stuck in limbo, unsure of which direction his decisions would be taking him.

noun

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restraint - The action of preventing or controlling someone or something or oneself from moving, acting, or progressing

There were many things that bothered her, but she decided to exercize restraint, and not spill out all her emotions at once.

verb

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dillydally - To waste time through aimless wandering or indecision

Beth and Kat dillydallied outside the store instead of going inside and buying something.

noun

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logjam - A situation where progress is halted due to a buildup of problems, delays, or obstacles.

The political negotiations reached a logjam when neither side was willing to compromise.

verb

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evade - To avoid or escape from someone or something.

For years after stealing the jewels from the Jewelry store, Marcel managed to evade being caught.

verb

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shirk - To avoid or neglect a duty or responsibility.

Employees who shirk their duties result in unhappy customers and lower profits.

adjective

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interminable - Endless (often used hyperbolically)

Victor dreaded going to the DMV, knowing he would spend an interminable amount of time there.