save (one's) breath
To spare the effort of saying something, doing something, or making an appeal that will be futile. Save your breath, Tom. There's no way they'll agree to the deal. I was going to complain to the phone company about the extra charges, but I decided to save my breath.
Save one's breath
Fig. to refrain from talking, explaining, or arguing. There is no sense in trying to convince her. Save your breath. Tell her to save her breath. He won't listen to her.
save (one's) breath
To refrain from a futile appeal or effort: Save your breath; you can't dissuade them.