Definition

Tasks or activities that keep someone busy but do not produce meaningful results or progress.

Example

He spent the afternoon doing busywork instead of focusing on his main project.

Conversation

I feel like I spent all day doing busywork at the office.

I totally get that; sometimes it seems like we're just filling time.

Exactly! I wish I could focus on more meaningful tasks instead of this busywork.

Yeah, it can be really frustrating when you want to be productive.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Busywork is formed from "busy" (from Old English "bysig", meaning occupied or active) and "work" (from Old English "weorc", meaning labor or effort). The term refers to tasks that keep one occupied but do not contribute significantly to productivity or meaningful outcomes.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'occupied' ('busy') with 'labor' ('work') that doesn't really achieve much — that's what busywork means.

Visually Confused Words