Speculative Friction

Speculative friction refers to the delays or resistance experienced when a system or process pauses to await expected, but not guaranteed, future events—such as the completion of data transmission or processing. This hesitation occurs because resources or operations are held in anticipation of something that might happen, but isn't certain, leading to inefficiencies. Essentially, it’s the friction caused by planning or preparing for potential outcomes that may or may not occur, which can slow down overall performance or response times in technical or logistical systems.