have no time for: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘have no time for’ mean?

The idiom "have no time for" means to have a negative opinion or lack of interest in someone or something.

It suggests a lack of patience or willingness to engage, often due to disapproval or indifference.

Idiom Explorer

Deciphering Time's Foe

The idiom "have a lot of time for" is closely related to "have no time for." While "have no time for" conveys a lack of interest or tolerance for someone or something, "have a lot of time for" suggests the opposite - a great deal of interest, patience, or admiration. It is an idiomatic expression used to express a high level of regard or appreciation for someone or something.

For example, if someone says "I have a lot of time for charity work," they are indicating that they have a strong affinity and support for charitable endeavors. Similarly, if a person says "I have a lot of time for my colleagues," they are expressing their admiration and respect for their coworkers.

The idiom "have a lot of time for" allows individuals to emphasize their positive feelings or regard for a particular person, activity, or idea. It is an idiomatic expression that endorses and celebrates the valuable contributions or qualities of the subject in question.

The idiom "in no time" is another related expression that contrasts with "have no time for." While "have no time for" suggests a lack of willingness or interest, "in no time" signifies speed or efficiency. It is used to describe a quick or prompt completion of an action or task.

I prioritize my time to avoid busyness and intolerance.

For instance, if someone says "I'll finish this report in no time," they are indicating that they will complete the report quickly and efficiently. Similarly, if a person says "I fixed the leak in the sink in no time," they are highlighting their ability to resolve the issue swiftly.

The idiom "in no time" conveys a sense of efficiency and speed, indicating the swift and successful accomplishment of a task or action. It is an idiomatic expression used to emphasize the promptness or effectiveness of one's actions.

Finally, the idiom "have none of it" is also related to "have no time for." While "have no time for" expresses a lack of interest or tolerance, "have none of it" conveys a refusal or rejection of something, often due to moral or ethical reasons.

For example, if someone says "I have none of your lies," they are declaring their refusal to accept or believe falsehoods. Similarly, if a person says "I have none of your excuses," they are rejecting justifications or explanations for someone's behavior.

The idiom "have none of it" signifies a firm stance against something, showing a refusal to engage with or accept a particular idea, behavior, or action. It is an idiomatic expression used to demonstrate one's strong opposition or resistance.

Overall, the idiom "have no time for" is a commonly used expression that reflects a lack of interest or tolerance for someone or something. It is a figurative phrase that symbolizes a reluctance to allocate attention or energy towards a specific subject. Along with its related idioms "have a lot of time for," "in no time," and "have none of it," it contributes to the richness and versatility of the English language.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom have no time for can be used in a sentence:

  • I have no time for people who are always late.
  • She has no time for gossip and drama.
  • He has no time for small talk; he prefers deep conversations.

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