Those little delays dad exploits (6)

I believe the answer is:

pauses

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'those little delays' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'dad exploits' is the wordplay.
'dad' becomes 'pa' ('pa' can be a synonym of 'dad').
'exploits' becomes 'uses' (use is a kind of exploit).
'pa'+'uses'='PAUSES'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for pauses that I've seen before include "Temporary halts" , "Short breaks in business" , "Stops or rests briefly" , "Short silences" , "Temporary interruptions" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.