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.

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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 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
  • After falling behind by double digits midway through the third quarter, Salaun and Tip Hayes powered a 17-3 run to end the quarter with a 51-49 Golden State lead.
    — Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 22 Aug. 2026
  • The robot overtook smartphone maker Honor's Lightning near the finish after falling behind early in the race.
    — Reuters, USA Today, 22 Aug. 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 29 Aug. 2026.

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