squirreling around
Busily doing nothing
Squirreling around means moving about in a restless, unfocused, or mischievous way—darting here and there like a squirrel.
It suggests scattered activity rather than purposeful work: Stop squirreling around and help me load the car.
The phrase can also imply poking into things or being playfully hyperactive.
- bustlingFull of energetic activity
- busy beeHardworking, active person
- on the moveActively going somewhere
- zigzaggingMoving in sharp turns
- all over the placeScattered without order
stashing · tucking away · hoarding · caching · nuts and bolts · scurrying · darting · rummaging · foraging · frolicking · dodging · hiding · scrambling · experimenting · sneaking · procrastinating · multitasking · saving
squirreling aroundbuckling down
Applying oneself with determination
getting down to business · concentrating · focusing · applying oneself · keeping one's eye on the ball
squirreling aroundgetting things done
Accomplishing tasks effectively
making progress · accomplishing · grinding · executing · delivering
squirreling aroundsitting still
Seated without movement
staying put · composure · stillness · tranquility · steadiness
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