(24/7 is an annoying business phrase and is just one of the 212 Most Annoying Business Phrases Managers Effuse, Confuse, and Overuse detailed in the hilarious must-have guide for every workplace: The 30,000-Pound Gorilla in the Room. Available right now on Amazon.)

24/7 and 24/7/365

When describing the operating hours of your local 7-11 or Denny’s restaurant, 24/7 or even 24/7/365 is appropriate. However, when a manager overuses either of these to describe his or her alleged commitment to a project – or worse, the unrealistic dedication they expect from their team – their message loses all meaning.

“We’re going to be on this 24/7/365,” they assure the client. Meanwhile, their team rolls their eyes and prepares to carry the impossible load their manager just committed them to. What’s most interesting about those managers who make these 24/7 commitments is they generally are the last to arrive in the morning and first to leave.

Of course, they see themselves as dedicated, thoughtful, and hardworking leaders; while their subordinates know the opposite is true. As everyone who’s ever worked for one of these lazy task masters knows: talk is cheap, and actions speak volumes.

About the only enjoyment we envision you can receive from hearing some manager spout, “We’re going to be on this 24/7,” is to quickly add, “Like white on rice!” to the end of his or her sentence. This usually raises an approving nod from your clueless manager and a knowing smile from your coworkers. #Victory

Replacement phrases: No replacement phrase needed. Like most overused manager sayings, this one is mostly unnecessary. If you’re looking for a way to say you’re committed to something or a project is in good hands, just say, “We’re committed” or, “It’s in good hands.”

See also: Give 110%

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The 30,000-Pound Gorilla in the Room is available on Amazon.