Thesaurus
holding pattern
noun
Synonyms and Antonyms of HOLDING PATTERN
1
a state of temporary inactivity <repair work on the bridge was in a holding pattern for the duration of the winter>
Synonyms cold storage, deep freeze, doldrums, dormancy, holding pattern, latency, moratorium, quiescence, suspended animation, suspense, suspension
Related Words inaction, inertia, inertness, motionlessness; impasse, standstill; coma, hibernation, hypnosis, repose, rest, sleep, slumber, torpor; recess, recession, remission; downtime, idleness, layoff
Antonyms continuance, continuation
2
an instance or period of being prevented from going about one's business <the couple has been trapped in this holding pattern for six months, as adoption officials create more red tape>
Related Words deferment, deferral, postponement; reprieve, respite; foot-dragging, hesitation, lag, pause, setback, slowdown
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