For the Umpteenth Time
Definition: An uncountable or indefinitely large number of times. The expression “for the umpteenth time” means to repeat something endlessly or seemingly forever, often with a hint of frustration. Originating from Morse code where “umpty” signified many and exponentially extending it with “teen,” the phrase captures our collective exhaustion with incessant repetition.
Synonyms:
- Ad infinitum
- Endlessly
- Numberless times
- Frequently
- Time and again
Antonyms:
- Rarely
- Seldom
- Hardly ever
- Infrequently
Related Expressions:
- Beating a dead horse: Persisting to argue or pursue a point that has already been settled.
- Over and over (again): Repeating something numerous times.
- Til the cows come home: An indefinitely long time, often outlasting patience or reason.
- On and on: Continuously or persistently.
Humor-filled Quote: “Repetition may not transform a lie into a truth, but it’ll certainly make reality want to take a break in the breakroom.” – Uncredited Wit
Proverbs:
- “Too much of a good thing is wonderful.” - Mae West (Satirical twist)
- “Once bitten, twice shy.” (Contrast against repetitive folly)
Literature and Media Recommendations:
- Books:
- Catch-22 by Joseph Heller: The bureaucratic absurdities and the never-ending cycle of illogical orders and counter-orders.
- Groundhog Day by Danny Rubin (if we count screenplays!): Living the same day over and over is repetition personified.
- Movies:
- Groundhog Day (1993): Bill Murray’s character endures the ultimate repetitive nightmare.
- Edge of Tomorrow (2014): Sci-fi take on reliving the same battle ad infinitum.
- Poetry:
- “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost: Reflects on the repetition of daily choices and their impact.
- Songs:
- “On Repeat” by LCD Soundsystem: Exactly as repetitive as one might fear and fantastically catchy.
- “Again” by Lenny Kravitz: Themes of doing and feeling things repeatedly.
Quizzes
Remember, even the most repetitive things have their season, their reason, and their special rhyme.
Inspirational Parting Thought: “Repetition is the mother of all learning, the architect of illustrious mastery, and occasionally, the dentist drill to our collective sanity.” - Riley R. Repeater
