1. To postpone or put off the main goal or primary aim of a project, plan, or mission
The unexpected weather conditions will delay the chief objective of the expedition.
As condições climáticas inesperadas vão adiar o objetivo principal da expedição.
2. To hinder progress toward achieving the most important target or outcome
Budget cuts should not delay the chief objective of improving public health.
Os cortes orçamentários não devem adiar o objetivo principal de melhorar a saúde pública.