Neglecting one's work with 油を売る
The expression 油を売る literally translates to “selling oil”, but its figurative meaning is different. It is an idiomatic phrase used to describe someone who is wasting time or idling, especially when they should be working or focusing on something important. It can imply dawdling or procrastination, like when someone is chatting aimlessly or doing something unrelated to their task. It’s often used in contexts where someone is being lazy or avoiding their responsibilities.
The expression is believed to derive from the Edo period (1603–1867), where oil merchants would sometimes engage in lengthy small talk with women while selling oil to them.
In English, “loafing around” has a similar meaning.
Further reading
- 【油を売る】の意味と使い方や例文（慣用句） (proverb-encyclopedia.com)
