Definitions

postpone

[pohst-pohn, pohs-] / poʊstˈpoʊn, poʊs- /

VERB

put off till later time

Synonyms

STRONGEST

adjourn defer delay hold up shelve suspend

STRONG

pigeonhole prorogue table

WEAK

carry forward carry over cool it give a rain check hang fire hold off hold over lay over put back put on back burner put on hold

Antonyms

STRONGEST

advance continue expedite forward further hasten hurry

WEAK

carry out do maintain persevere

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Postpone or hold back: The Fed might decide to wait and hold back on rate cuts in October, giving forward guidance but not putting through additional cuts until data releases pick up again.

From MarketWatch • Oct. 11, 2025

“If you can tell your work, please do so. Postpone discretionary trips into the downtown area.”

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 18, 2023

Postpone the Champagne until you feel true trust and intimacy.

From Washington Post • Dec. 26, 2018

Postpone whatever you’re working on with her, if you can, until she’s able to speak at a reasonable volume.

From Slate • Dec. 24, 2018

Postpone Pacific railroads, international telegraphs, polygamy in Utah, African colonization, everything, to the engrossing and emergent crisis which now confronts the Government.

From The Atlantic Monthly, Volume 11, No. 66, April, 1863 by Various

Vocabulary lists containing postpone

Anti-Antonyms: Words Without Opposites

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Bridge to Terabithia

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Smile

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