A kinder way to say “waste of time”

Say this instead

1. 01

   I'm not sure this meeting is the best use of everyone's time. Could we cover it in a short written update instead?

   Boss · Chat

   Challenging a recurring meeting this way keeps the focus on the format rather than on whoever runs it.

   Use for my message
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2. 02

   I don't think this weekly report is giving us anything we actually use. Can we talk about cutting it down or dropping it?

   Coworker · Chat

   Naming the issue with a shared task and inviting discussion keeps a coworker from feeling attacked.

   Use for my message
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3. 03

   I don't think this task is worth the hours it takes right now, so please pause it and put that time into the onboarding work.

   Someone you manage · Email

   As a manager, you can redirect effort clearly this way without implying the person's work was foolish.

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4. 04

   I don't think another round of revisions will add much value. I'd recommend we use that time on the launch checklist instead.

   Client · Email

   Pushing back on extra work lands better with a client when you also offer a more useful place for the time.

   Use for my message
   Copy
5. 05

   Thanks for the details. The role is well below my current level and salary range, so a call wouldn't be a good use of either of our time.

   Recruiter / HR · Email

   Declining a recruiter politely with a clear reason means they are less likely to keep chasing you.

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6. 06

   Hi Priscilla, a second visit is unlikely to fix this, so I'd rather not book one that won't help. Can I suggest another option?

   Customer · SMS

   Turning down a step that won't solve the problem, while offering another option, keeps the customer on your side.

   Use for my message
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7. 07

   I'm struggling to see what the extra approval step adds. Can we look at whether it's worth keeping?

   Coworker · Email

   Asking about value instead of attacking the process or its owner invites an honest look at whether the step earns its place.

   Use for my message
   Copy

Examples

What to avoid

• Sarcasm or an eye-roll tone hides your point behind attitude.
• Calling the work or the person pointless or useless puts the focus in the wrong place, so talk about the result instead.
• A bare verdict with no reason leaves people guessing, so say what you expected the time to achieve.
• Raising it in front of a group is riskier than saying it one to one first.
• Criticism with no alternative falls flat, so offer something like a shorter format or a different use of the time.

Related phrases

• Better ways to say “I disagree”→
• “Per my last email”: how to say it politely→
• Alternatives to “that's a stupid idea” at work→
• A kinder way to say “stay in your lane”→
• Alternatives to “this is unnecessary” at work→
• Saying “I decline the offer, salary too low” at work→