What's the default way to interpret the phrase "Don't waste any time (in) getting back here."?

Question

Is this phrase ambiguous or is there are clearly preferred way of interpretation? The following 2 interpretations seem diametrically opposed:

Don't waste any time getting back because you'll be too late anyways. Focus on something else instead.
Hurry up. Make the trip as quick possible because you are needed urgently.

Is it context dependent?

Rob · Answer

I suppose this could, technically, be ambiguous. However, colloquially, it's quite clear the sentence refers to your second interpretation. "Don't waste any time doing x" is a common phrase to suggest that they need to do x and only x in a timely manner.

If they were saying they shouldn't come, they'd use "Don't waste your time" or "Don't waste my time" (if they wanted to particularly point out their annoyance), rather than "Don't waste any time".

What's the default way to interpret the phrase "Don't waste any time (in) getting back here."?

One Answer

Add your own answers!

Ask a Question