To defer means to:

Deferring involves the act of putting off or postponing a decision or action. When someone decides to defer, they choose to delay addressing a particular issue or task, often to gather more information, seek further consideration, or simply because the timing isn't right for action. This concept is common in various contexts, such as in meetings where a discussion may be deferred to allow members extra time to reflect on the topic or when individuals need to weigh their options before making a definitive choice. In contrast to acting immediately, taking charge, or rejecting something outright, deferring is specifically about the pause or delay in making decisions or completing tasks. This nuanced understanding of deferring emphasizes the importance of timing and consideration in decision-making processes.