stand idle

Frequency: 6.27.5 per million words

to be not in use, especially for something upright like a machine

idleverb + adj (not in use)

Categories:

stand

Examples (10)

  • The pumps are standing idle due to a lack of maintenance.
  • Many machines in the old factory now stand idle, gathering dust.
  • The new equipment was delivered last week but has been standing idle ever since.
  • It's a shame to see such valuable machinery stand idle when it could be producing.
  • With no new projects, a large portion of the workforce found themselves standing idle.
  • The construction cranes will stand idle until the next phase of the project begins.
  • The once-bustling port now has many ships standing idle at anchor.
  • Leaving capital to stand idle is not a good business strategy.
  • Despite the urgent need, the emergency generators stood idle during the power outage.
  • The government was criticized for allowing public assets to stand idle.