burn daylight
The phrase 'burn daylight' emphasizes inefficient use of time or resources, originating from the unnecessary use of artificial light during the day.
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Definition
B2General
(informal)To waste time or delay, especially when time could be used more productively.
Example
- We need to start the project now; we can't afford to burn daylight.
- Stop burning daylight and get to work!
C1Historical
(archaic)To use artificial light during the day when natural sunlight is sufficient.
Example
- In the past, burning daylight was frowned upon as it wasted precious resources.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "burn daylight":
see daylightbroad daylightin broad daylightdaylight robberyfrom dawn to duskday for nightday and nightcatch the sundag outsun upfollow the suntime of dayin the cold light of day