Introduction / Context:
"Expedite" is a workplace verb meaning to speed up a process. The antonym must capture slowing down or causing something to take longer. Several near-synonyms or neutral workflow verbs may appear as distractors but are not true opposites.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Target verb: expedite = make faster.
- Administrative/office setting.
- We need a single, clear antonym.
Concept / Approach:
The natural opposite of "to expedite" is "to delay." Verbs like "review," "process," "register," or "clarify" describe actions within a workflow, but none necessarily reverses speed; they can be done quickly or slowly. Only "delay" encodes the contrary temporal effect.
Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Paraphrase: expedite = speed up.2) Seek the verb that means slow down or hold back.3) "Delay" uniquely expresses that opposite.4) Eliminate neutral verbs that do not imply speed reversal.
Verification / Alternative check:
Replace: "asked the clerk to delay the matter" is the direct opposite managerial instruction to "expedite the matter."
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
clarify: Concerns understanding, not speed.process: A generic term; no inherent tempo.review: Means examine; not inherently slower or faster.register: Means record; not an antonym.
Common Pitfalls:
Beware of near-synonyms in business contexts that feel appropriate but do not reverse the meaning. Only "delay" squarely opposes "expedite."
Final Answer:
delay
Discussion & Comments