reinvent the wheel

Idioms  

1. Do something again, from the beginning, especially in a needless or inefficient effort, as in School committees need not reinvent the wheel every time they try to improve the curriculum. This expression alludes to the invention of a simple but very important device that requires no improvement. [Second half of 1900s]

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Example Sentences

That is not to say the 41-year-old lacks innovation or the ability to nullify opponents, but his similarities to predecessor Enzo Maresca mean he does not need to reinvent the wheel.

From BBC • Jan. 10, 2026

While it was daring in its hard-R riskiness and played on our basest fears, it didn’t reinvent the wheel, or even try to.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 16, 2025

The writer/director Yadhu Krishnan’s film isn’t out to reinvent the wheel.

From New York Times • Jun. 16, 2023

Don’t try to reinvent the wheel — it’s better to just copy or tweak one that you already love.

From Seattle Times • May 8, 2023

For a sophisticated dessert, it’s not always necessary to reinvent the wheel.

From Washington Times • May 4, 2023