Kicking the stump

Assertively pretending to know something.

Uncle T was just kicking the stump when you asked him what's going on in Ukraine.

Kicking the Stump

"Kicking the stump" refers to engaging in activities that are ultimately unproductive and futile, often imposed by an employer or authority figure, despite their lack of meaningful impact or effectiveness. These actions are typically repetitive, redundant, and serve little purpose beyond fulfilling arbitrary or bureaucratic requirements. This term captures the essence of tasks that waste time and resources without contributing to any significant outcome or progress.

Despite knowing the prospects had already declined the offer due to higher prices, the sales team spent their afternoon kicking the stump by making follow-up calls, as mandated by their manager.