Search
to chase one's (own) tail
01
to try hard yet achieve very little or nothing at all
![to [chase] {one's} (own|) tail definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/40989/original/?type=jpeg "to [chase] {one's} (own|) tail definition and meaning")
Disapproving
Idiom
InformalWhat 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
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.
