![Professional business meeting](https://linguolabs.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/unsplash-_awKfK0hcIs.jpg?height=400&width=800")
Meetings
5 Ways to Buy Time in a Meeting
Ever been caught off guard in a meeting? You're not alone. Whether it's an unexpected question or a complex issue that needs more thought, knowing how to buy time professionally is an essential business skill. These phrases help you stay composed, thoughtful, and credible—even when you don't have an immediate answer. Master these expressions to maintain confidence and control in any meeting situation.
Target Vocabulary & Phrases
1
"That's a great question. Let me think about that for a moment."
This phrase acknowledges the question positively while giving yourself time to formulate a thoughtful response. It shows you're taking the question seriously rather than rushing to answer.
Example: When your manager asks about budget projections you haven't fully analyzed: "That's a great question. Let me think about that for a moment—I want to give you an accurate figure."
2
"Could you clarify what you mean by...?"
This phrase buys time by redirecting focus back to the speaker. It also ensures you fully understand the question before responding, which prevents miscommunication and demonstrates active listening.
Example: When asked about "improving efficiency": "Could you clarify what you mean by efficiency—are we talking about time, costs, or workflow processes?"
3
"I'd like to circle back to that after reviewing the data."
"Circle back" is a professional way to postpone a detailed answer. It sets the expectation that you'll provide a well-researched response later rather than speculating in the moment.
Example: When asked about quarterly results you're not certain about: "I'd like to circle back to that after reviewing the data—I'll have those numbers for you by end of day."
4
"That's an interesting perspective. What do others think?"
This phrase redirects the conversation to the group, buying you time while also fostering collaborative discussion. It's particularly useful when you need a moment to process a complex or unexpected comment.
Example: When someone suggests a controversial change: "That's an interesting perspective. What do others think about implementing this approach?"
5
"Let me get back to you on that with a more detailed answer."
This is a direct, professional way to defer answering. It shows integrity—you're not making up an answer on the spot, but committing to provide accurate information later.
Example: When asked about legal implications you're unsure about: "Let me get back to you on that with a more detailed answer—I want to consult with our legal team first."
Test Your Knowledge
Choose the most appropriate response for each situation:
1. Your boss asks you a technical question you're not sure about. What should you say?
2. A colleague uses a vague term in their question. How do you respond?
3. Someone asks about data you need to verify first. What phrase works best?
4. You want to involve others while you gather your thoughts. Which phrase helps?
5. You need to research something before giving a proper answer. What do you say?