List of 426 Sets of Synonyms - How they Differ - Total of 2307 Words - 109

SYNONYMS: delay, slow, retard, detain.
These verbs mean to cause to be later or slower than expected or desired.

To delay is to cause to be behind schedule: The bus was delayed by a cloudburst.
Slow implies a decrease in speed, often deliberate: A sprained ankle slowed my pace. The driver slowed the car.
To retard is to slow and delay or impede progress, action, or accomplishment: His recovery was retarded by starvation.
Detain stresses being held back and prevented from proceeding: She was detained by an unexpected visitor.