Antonyms for the phrase "dashing ahead" include stalling, hesitating, dragging, lagging, drifting, and dawdling. When someone is dashing ahead, they are moving quickly and forcefully towards their goal, without wasting any time. However, when they are stalling, they may be procrastinating or taking their time to make a decision. Hesitating means to pause or delay before taking action. When someone is dragging, they are moving slowly or struggling to make progress. Lagging indicates falling behind or not keeping up with others. Drifting means to move aimlessly or without purpose. Lastly, dawdling refers to wasting time or moving slowly and idly with no urgency.