lose time

To spend time doing something unnecessary or unhelpful.

• Do not lose time on excuses.
• She lost time searching websites she did not need.
• We cannot lose time discussing the same question again.

How to use it: lose time doing something (Do not lose time arguing about small details.)

Similar words: waste time

Opposites: save time

Common phrases: lose time arguing, lose time hesitating

To take longer than planned and become late with a journey or task.

• We lost time in traffic.
• The builders lost time because of the heavy rain.
• Will we lose time if we take the longer route?

How to use it: lose time on something (We lost time on the steep section of the route.)

Similar words: fall behind, be delayed

Opposites: gain time

Common phrases: lose time travelling, lose time waiting

If a clock or watch does this, it gradually shows a time earlier than the correct time.

• My watch loses time.
• The kitchen clock lost time after its battery weakened.
• Does your old watch still lose time every day?

Similar words: run slow

Opposites: gain time

Common phrases: lose time daily, lose time overnight