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3. waste breath

waste breath

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waste one's breath

Fig. to waste one's time talking; to talk in vain. Don't waste your breath talking to her. She won't listen. You can't persuade me. You're just wasting your breath.

See also: breath, waste

waste your breath

to say something that is likely to be ignored You'd be wasting your breath reporting it to the police because they don't look for stolen bikes, even expensive ones.

Usage notes: often used in the form don't waste your breath: Don't waste your breath - I've already asked her to help and she said no.

See also: breath, waste

waste your breath

to tell or ask someone something although this will have no effect (often negative) Don't waste your breath. I've already asked her to help and she said no. You'd be wasting your breath reporting it to the police - they never look for stolen bikes.

See also: breath, waste

waste (one's) breath

To gain or accomplish nothing by speaking.

See also: breath, waste