Running around like headless chickens

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27 December 2025

We use this expression to describe a group of people who are disorganised and possibly all panicking.

Written: Yes

Spoken: Yes

Formal: No

Informal: Yes

Example 1

How was the first day in your new school.

Not great. It was very disorganised - all the staff were running around like headless chickens.

Example 2

How was your meal last night?

The food was great. But I think one of the staff was off sick because they were all running around like headless chickens.