time-consuming

UK: ˈtaɪm kənˌsjuːmɪŋ | US: ˈtaɪm kənˌsuːmɪŋ

Definition

  1. adj. requiring a significant amount of time to complete or accomplish

  2. adj. causing delay or inefficiency due to prolonged effort

Structure
time <duration>consum <use up>ing <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word combines "time," from Old English tīma (period, duration), and "consume," from Latin consumere (to use up, spend). The suffix "-ing" turns the verb into an adjective, describing something that "uses up time." The term emerged in the early 19th century to describe tasks or processes that demand excessive time, reflecting industrialization's focus on efficiency.

Examples

  1. Filling out paperwork can be very time-consuming.

  2. The research phase is often the most time-consuming part of the project.

  3. Avoid time-consuming meetings by setting clear agendas.

  4. Handwashing dishes is more time-consuming than using a dishwasher.

  5. The approval process became unnecessarily time-consuming due to bureaucracy.