time sink examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "time sink examples" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing activities or tasks that consume a lot of time without yielding significant results. For example, "Social media can be a time sink; here are some time sink examples." Alternative expressions include "time-wasting activities" and "time-consuming tasks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

A time sink.

The Guardian - Opinion

That's a time sink.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I hope not, because it's a huge time sink.

The New Yorker

Huge time sink potential.

TechCrunch

Instagram is a time sink.

TechCrunch

Best Time Sink (2010: Cityville).

TechCrunch

Best Time Sink Site/Application.

TechCrunch

It's such a time sink.

TechCrunch

It was the ultimate time sink.

TechCrunch

Lumines is a giant time sink.

TechCrunch

This process is a huge time sink for teachers.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When illustrating the concept of a "time sink", provide specific examples to make your point more relatable and impactful. For instance, instead of simply stating that social media is a "time sink", mention specific platforms or activities.

Common error

Avoid simply labeling broad categories as "time sinks" without further qualification. Instead, specify which aspects or activities within those categories are particularly time-consuming and unproductive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "time sink examples" functions as a noun phrase that introduces or provides instances of activities or tasks considered to be unproductive consumers of time. These examples are often used to illustrate the concept of time mismanagement. Ludwig contains many examples of the phrase "time sink" in use.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "time sink examples" serves to illustrate what activities or tasks consume time without yielding proportional results. While Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound, its frequency of use is difficult to assess because there are zero specific examples in the current search results. However, when writing about productivity or time management, providing specific "time sink examples" helps readers understand the concept and avoid similar situations. Consider using alternative phrases like "time-wasting activity" or "unproductive endeavor" for more formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

waste of time

A direct and common way to express that time is being used ineffectively.

time-wasting activity

Focuses on the unproductive nature of the activity.

time-consuming task

Highlights the duration required to complete the task.

inefficient use of time

Focuses on the lack of efficiency in how time is allocated.

productivity killer

Emphasizes the negative impact on overall productivity.

drain on time

Suggests a gradual depletion of available time.

unproductive endeavor

Stresses the lack of positive outcomes from the effort.

black hole of time

Implies a seemingly endless consumption of time.

pointless time expenditure

Highlights the lack of value derived from the time spent.

activity with low return on investment of time

Highlights the poor ratio of output to time invested.

FAQs

How can I use "time sink" in a sentence?

You can use "time sink" to describe an activity or task that consumes a lot of time without providing much value. For example, "Meetings that lack a clear agenda can be a major time sink."

What's a good alternative to "time sink"?

Alternatives include "time-wasting activity", "time-consuming task", or "waste of time" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "time sink" in formal writing?

While "time sink" is widely understood, in formal writing, consider using more professional alternatives like "inefficient use of time" or "unproductive endeavor".

What makes something a "time sink"?

A "time sink" is characterized by its ability to consume a significant amount of time while yielding minimal or no positive results. It often involves repetitive or aimless activities that detract from more important tasks.