marking time

phrase

present participle of mark time
as in delaying
to move or act slowly The soldiers marked time until they were given the signal to move forward.

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of marking time All the same, Adelaide believed in the importance of marking time. — Yiyun Li, New Yorker, 13 Oct. 2026 The moon represents creation and destruction, rebirth, eternity, the feminine, time, marking time, mystery, the night, and secrets. — Literary Hub, 18 Aug. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for marking time
falling behind
Phrase
  • But eviction often takes time, and even falling behind on rent is not necessarily an immediate concern when other bills are pressing, Schneider said.
    — John Csiszar, Washington Post, 25 Oct. 2026
  • The document specifically mentions AI tutors and assistance for students falling behind in the curriculum.
    — Dmytro Korchevskyi, Fortune, 24 Oct. 2026
Definition of falling behind

Browse Nearby Words

marking (off)
marking time
marking up
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Marking time.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/marking%20time. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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