Wikipedia:Don't move yet
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 | This page in a nutshell: What the !vote wait means in requested move discussions |
In a requested move discussion regarding a current event editors will sometimes !vote wait rather than support or oppose. This can be interpreted as temporarily opposing a move within the context of a time-sensitive discussion, often involving a rapidly evolving topic. It is distinctly different from the argument to wait at articles for deletion over lack of sustained coverage, in contrast it can instead be in support of a title being too soon.
Why wait
[edit]Arguments for delaying are often based on the lack of developed common name, an evolving common name due to the dynamic and fast moving nature of the event, or in opposition to a title that is not yet supported by reliable sources.[a] The best fit title can also change from one week to another while it's common that the topic scope will also be broadened; as a result the best course of action is sometimes to patiently wait for the right title to arrive. Waiting avoids outright opposing a move when further information isn't available at the time.
The compromise
[edit]The temporary opposition by insisting to wait doesn't imply that the article shouldn't be moved in the near future, either to the same proposed title or an alternative, or that the current title is ideal; it only rejects the proposal at the present time, usually while leaving the door open for alternatives in the future. When the discussion lacks consensus, with traditional supporters and opposers at odds with each other over best title to choose from, and if a significant number or participants support waiting before moving a page; a compromising title is encouraged in order to attract support from these waiters and tip the scales in favour of an improved title.[b] As waiters live in the moment, they can as quickly change to support when the time is right, even if the target isn't the first choice.
Notes
[edit]- ↑ In the January 2026 RM that proposed moving 2026 United States strikes in Venezuela to Capture of Nicolás Maduro and United States invasion of Venezuela, a significant minority were temporarily opposed to a move and !voted wait.
- ↑ Waiters were able to tip the balance towards no consensus in one discussion and confirmed consensus not to move in another, effectively directing and negotiating the outcome between support and opposers towards a compromise title.