rʌn əˈraʊnd ɪn ˈsɜːrklz
Work
informal
beginner
- Literally:
- Running in circular paths
What does "run around in circles" mean?
- To be busy but unproductive
- To make no progress despite effort
Examples
- We've been running around in circles trying to solve this.
- The committee is just running around in circles.
- Stop running around in circles and make a decision!
Origin
From the frustrating image of someone running but ending up where they started. Physical representation of futility.
How to use it
Expresses frustration with lack of progress. Common in business and bureaucracy.
Similar expressions
spin one's wheels
go nowhere
chase one's tail
Opposites
make progress
move forward
get results
Related idioms
- hit the nail on the head
To describe exactly what is true or important
- call it a day
To stop working for the day
- have one's hands full
To be very busy with something
- learn the ropes
To learn the basics of a job or activity
- it's not rocket science
It's not difficult to understand or do
- get your act together
To organize yourself and start behaving more responsibly
Use it in a practice answer
Try "run around in circles" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.