chase one's (own) tail
volume

Définition et Signification de "chase one's (own) tail"

to chase one's (own) tail
01

tourner en rond

to try hard yet achieve very little or nothing at all
to [chase] {one's} (own|) tail definition and meaning
DisapprovingDisapproving
IdiomIdiom
InformalInformal

What is the origin of the idiom "chase one's tail" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "chase one's tail" is related to the behavior of dogs, who may chase their own tails in circles without ever catching them. The phrase has been in use in English since at least the early 20th century, and it is often applied to situations where someone is engaging in fruitless activity, such as repeatedly trying to solve a problem using the same ineffective approach. In general, the phrase is used to describe a situation where someone is expending a lot of energy without making any real progress towards their goals.

example
Exemple
I've been trying to finish this project for hours, but I feel like I'm just chasing my tail.
The playful dog chased its tail in circles.
The sight of the puppy chasing its tail filled the room with mirth and laughter.
The cat behaved queerly, chasing its tail in a circle for no apparent reason.
It's like she's constantly chasing her tail.
download-mobile-app
Téléchargez notre application mobile
Langeek Mobile Application
Télécharger l'Application
LanGeek
Télécharger l'Application
langeek application

Download Mobile App

stars

app store