Run around like a headless chicken

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phrase

Act in a frantic, disorganized manner, without thinking or a clear purpose.

When the fire alarm went off, people started running around like headless chickens, not knowing what to do.
Visual representation of "run around like a headless chicken" - Act in a frantic, disorganized manner, without thinking or a clear purpose

Often appears as...

  • panic and ran around like a headless chicken
  • stop running around like a headless chicken

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "run around like a headless chicken"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Use

This phrase is never meant literally; it's used to describe someone's uncoordinated actions metaphorically.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
When the boss quit suddenly, the team ran around like headless chickens, unsure of their next steps.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Informal Context

This phrase is informal and typically used in casual conversation, not in formal or professional settings.

Illustration for Informal Context
I was running around like a headless chicken trying to get the house ready for the party.
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Negative Connotation

Using the phrase suggests a negative view of someone's behavior — it's not complimentary.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
He was running around like a headless chicken, completely disrupting our workflow.
Visual representation of the word "Run around like a headless chicken"

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