Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

run-round-in-circles

idiom
/rʌn raʊnd ɪn ˈsɜrkəlz/
Definition
To engage in a repetitive cycle of actions without making any progress.
Examples
  • I’ve been working on this project for weeks, but it feels like I’m just running round in circles.
  • Instead of solving the problem, they kept running round in circles, which only added to the confusion.
  • After several meetings with no clear direction, it seemed like we were simply running round in circles.
Meaning
This phrase describes a situation where someone is continually doing something without any productive results, often leading to frustration.
Synonyms
  • go in circles
  • tread water
  • be at a standstill