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to argue the toss
01
to disagree with or continue arguing about a decision that is already made
What is the origin of the idiom "argue the toss" and when to use it?
The idiom "argue the toss" is believed to have originated in the United Kingdom in the mid-20th century. The phrase is used to describe a situation where someone is engaging in a pointless or fruitless argument or discussion, often over a trivial or unimportant matter. The idiom implies a sense of frustration or annoyance, as the argument or discussion is not likely to achieve anything meaningful or productive.
Example
The negotiation process was bogged down by the two sides arguing the toss over minor details, rather than focusing on the bigger picture.
The team was arguing the toss over the color scheme of the website, even though it was a minor issue that wouldn't affect its functionality.
If we get bogged down arguing the toss over minor details, we'll never be able to accomplish anything meaningful.
The two colleagues are still arguing about who should take credit for the project, but it's just arguing the toss at this point.
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