Don't ask me about the new rules; I just work here.
I just work here
idiomIndicates that the speaker cannot answer their interrogator's question, because of lack of experience with or knowledge on the topic.
Origin
disputed originOriginally used as I only work here since at least the 1950s.
When the customer demanded to know why the store policy changed, the clerk simply replied that I just work here.
Faced with the angry board members, the junior assistant offered no explanation for the budget cuts, stating only that I just work here.
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busy work
Work or activity performed with the intention or result of occupying time, and not necessarily to accomplish something productive; routine work of low priority undertaken for the sake of avoiding idleness.
- 02
close enough for government work
Adequate; acceptable as government work, imperfect but not worth the time nor effort of improving.
- 03
crazy enough to work
Acknowledging that an idea, plan, or strategy seems foolish, implausible, or risky, yet might succeed precisely because of its unconventional or unexpected nature.
- 04
detective work
investigative research
- 05
dirty work
One or more unpleasant tasks, assignments, or employment duties, especially those of a disreputable or illicit nature.
- 06
do the work
To take part in social justice activism; to fight against racism, oppression, etc.
- 07
don't call me sir, I work for a living
Used by senior enlisted military personnel to indicate that they are not commissioned officers.
- 08
donkey work
Work that is difficult, boring, and routine.