Waiting game Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A situation where you purposely wait to act, hoping someone else moves first or that things will change, often to get an advantage.
Usage & Nuances
Informal and often used in negotiations, relationships, or competitions. Common phrases: 'play a waiting game', 'it’s a waiting game'. It emphasizes strategy and patience. Don’t confuse with just 'waiting'; it involves intention and often tension.
Example Sentences
We are playing the waiting game with our job applications.
basic
It’s a waiting game to see who will call first.
basic
Sometimes business is just a waiting game.
basic
Investors are playing a waiting game until the market settles down.
natural
I hate this waiting game—can’t someone just make a decision?
natural
Negotiating salaries often turns into a waiting game between employer and employee.
natural