What does "excessive delay" likely indicate to a referee during a bout?

The interpretation of "excessive delay" during a bout is significant for a referee. When a fencer takes an extended amount of time to resume action, it often suggests they may be attempting to influence the referee's decision-making or manipulate the bout's pace. This could involve creating a perception of injury or fatigue, thus swaying the referee's judgment or altering the momentum of the match to their advantage.

This behavior can be seen as a strategic tactic where the fencer hopes to disrupt their opponent's rhythm, gain a psychological edge, or draw attention to themselves in a way that could elicit a favorable call. By identifying this type of delay, the referee has the opportunity to address the issue and ensure fair play, maintaining the integrity of the competition.

The other scenarios proposed—such as the fencer being out of breath, lacking proper techniques, or waiting for crowd reactions—are less likely to constitute a clear indication of strategic intent, making them less relevant in the context of referee assessments of delays during a bout.