Frittering

Frittering describes the act of wasting time, money, or opportunities in a careless or unproductive way. It implies a gradual and often unnoticed dissipation of resources, a slow leakage of value. The focus is on the lack of careful planning or consideration that leads to this waste. It suggests a certain degree of carelessness and lack of foresight, often with a subtle sense of regret or missed potential. The implication can extend beyond tangible assets to include intangible things like time, energy, or attention. It is distinct from deliberate squandering, as it often lacks the intentionality associated with waste.

Frittering meaning with examples

• He spent his youth frittering away his talent on trivial pursuits, instead of honing his skills. He drifted from job to job, never investing in long-term goals. Now, older, he sees how his potential has dwindled because of lost chances. He feels remorse, but cannot undo the past.
• The company's profits were frittering due to poor management and a lack of investment in key resources. Resources like time, money, and even manpower were being wasted as no real improvements were being implemented, which lead the business towards potential failure.
• She felt a growing sense of unease as she noticed her savings were frittering on online shopping and frivolous entertainment. Although the individual purchases felt insignificant, the cumulative impact was damaging her financial security. She quickly adjusted her spending to get back on track.
• Don't go frittering the day away watching television! Finish your homework and get your chores done first.
• They were frittering their summer vacation away by hanging around the house all day, when they could've traveled.