# waste of breath

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/waste-of-breath
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Needless or unnecessary speech.

## Examples

- Don't argue with him; it is a waste of breath.
- I tried to explain the new rules, but it was a total waste of breath because nobody was listening.
- Attempting to persuade the stubborn committee proved to be a complete waste of breath, as their minds were already firmly made up.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.