Definition

Adverb: In a manner that involves repetitive discussion or action without achieving any useful result or making any progress toward a goal.

Usage

The phrase "in circles" is used to describe a situation where people are engaged in discussion, debate, or activity that repeats the same points or actions without leading to a resolution, decision, or forward movement. It emphasizes futility and lack of advancement.

Examples

• The committee debated for hours but kept arguing in circles, never reaching a conclusion.
• I've been thinking about this problem all day, but my thoughts are just going in circles.
• Without a clear agenda, the meeting went in circles and wasted everyone's time.

Advanced Usage

• To go around in circles: This is a common verb phrase with the same meaning as "to talk in circles" or "to think in circles." It vividly describes the cyclical, unproductive nature of the activity.
  • We need new data, or we'll just keep going around in circles on this issue.
• To run around in circles: Similar to "go around in circles," this phrase can imply frantic but ultimately pointless activity or effort.
  • Trying to get approval from three different departments had me running around in circles all week.

Variants and Related Words

• Circular reasoning (n): A logical fallacy where the conclusion of an argument is assumed in its premise, resulting in an argument that goes "in circles."
• Cyclical (adj): Characterized by or moving in cycles. While not synonymous, it relates to the repetitive nature of "in circles."

Synonyms

• Futilely
• Unproductively
• Ineffectually

Related Phrases

• Beating a dead horse: Persisting with a topic that has already been settled or is no longer productive.
• Spinning one's wheels: Exerting effort but making no progress.

Adverb

1. without making progress
   • the candidates talked in circles