At sixes and sevens
phrase
In a state of confusion or disarray.
After the earthquake, the whole city was at sixes and sevens.

Often appears as...
- leave someone at sixes and sevens
- feel at sixes and sevens
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
In a state of disagreement or disunity.
The two political parties are at sixes and sevens over the new law.

Often appears as...
- at sixes and sevens with someone
- be at sixes and sevens
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
In a state of confusion or disarray.
After the earthquake, the whole city was at sixes and sevens.

Often appears as...
- leave someone at sixes and sevens
- feel at sixes and sevens
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
In a state of disagreement or disunity.
The two political parties are at sixes and sevens over the new law.

Often appears as...
- at sixes and sevens with someone
- be at sixes and sevens
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2

Figurative Meaning
This phrase doesn't refer to numbers; it means a situation is unclear or mixed up.

With all the new regulations, businesses are at sixes and sevens.
Expresses Chaos
Use it to describe chaos due to lack of organization or clear direction.

The team was at sixes and sevens during the fundraiser.
Personal Disarray
Can describe someone feeling overwhelmed or not having things sorted out in life.

After losing her job, she felt completely at sixes and sevens.
Figurative Meaning
This phrase doesn't refer to numbers; it means a situation is unclear or mixed up.

With all the new regulations, businesses are at sixes and sevens.
Expresses Chaos
Use it to describe chaos due to lack of organization or clear direction.

The team was at sixes and sevens during the fundraiser.
Personal Disarray
Can describe someone feeling overwhelmed or not having things sorted out in life.

After losing her job, she felt completely at sixes and sevens.
Figurative Meaning
This phrase doesn't refer to numbers; it means a situation is unclear or mixed up.

With all the new regulations, businesses are at sixes and sevens.
Expresses Chaos
Use it to describe chaos due to lack of organization or clear direction.

The team was at sixes and sevens during the fundraiser.
Personal Disarray
Can describe someone feeling overwhelmed or not having things sorted out in life.

After losing her job, she felt completely at sixes and sevens.
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