chase one's (own) tail
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Определение и Значение "chase one's (own) tail"

to chase one's (own) tail
01

Предпринимать действия, которые неэффективны

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
Пример
I've been trying to finish this project for hours, but I feel like I'm just chasing my tail.
The peculiar behavior of the cat, such as chasing its tail for hours, amused the family.
The cat amusingly chased its tail in playful circles.
The cat chased its tail in circles, creating a hilariously entertaining scene.
It's like she's constantly chasing her tail.
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