Reinvent the wheel

usgb
verb

To waste time creating something that already exists or doing something that has already been done.

Why are we trying to reinvent the wheel? Let's use the data analysis software that's already available instead of trying to create our own.
Visual representation of "reinvent the wheel" - To waste time creating something that already exists or doing something that has already been done.

Often appears as...

  • don't reinvent the wheel
  • try not to reinvent the wheel

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "reinvent the wheel"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Avoid Duplication

Use this phrase when suggesting to use existing solutions instead of creating new, identical ones.

Illustration for Avoid Duplication
Let's not reinvent the wheel; the accounting system we have is efficient enough.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Suggesting Efficiency

The phrase implies that time or resources should not be wasted on solving a problem that's already been addressed.

Illustration for Suggesting Efficiency
Instead of reinventing the wheel, we should improve upon the work our predecessors did.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Express Frustration

It may express annoyance at someone's attempt to do unnecessary work.

Illustration for Express Frustration
He's reinventing the wheel by rewriting the report from scratch.
Visual representation of the word "Reinvent the wheel"

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