Like herding cats

usgb
phrase

Trying to manage or control many people or things that are difficult to deal with or organize.

Trying to get everyone from the group to go in one direction was like herding cats.
Visual representation of "like herding cats" - Trying to manage or control many people or things that are difficult to deal with or organize.

Often appears as...

  • managing a meeting was like herding cats
  • organizing the event was like herding cats

Usage tips

Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "like herding cats"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Use

The phrase is not about actual cats, it’s a metaphor for chaos in organization.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
Coordinating a family reunion can be like herding cats.
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Hyperbolic Expression

Often used to exaggerate difficulty, suggesting a near-impossible task.

Illustration for Hyperbolic Expression
Completing this project on time feels like herding cats.
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Frustration Tone

Implies an underlying sense of frustration or exasperation with the task.

Illustration for Frustration Tone
Coaching the kindergarteners' soccer team is like herding cats.
Visual representation of the word "Like herding cats"

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