Churchill argues that postponing conflict is not automatically an achievement if the delay leaves a country in a weaker strategic position. Time can be valuable when it improves preparedness, strengthens alliances or creates opportunities for a peaceful settlement. But if an adversary becomes stronger while the underlying dispute remains unresolved, postponement may simply make the eventual conflict more dangerous and difficult.

The remark reflects Churchill’s criticism of policies before the Second World War that, in his view, delayed confrontation with Nazi Germany without removing the threat. His point is therefore about judging delay by its consequences rather than by the temporary absence of war. More broadly, the quotation illustrates a principle of strategic decision-making: postponement has value only when the additional time is likely to improve the eventual outcome or reduce the underlying risk.