scrambling around

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "scrambling around" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone is moving quickly and in a disorganized manner, often in search of something or trying to manage multiple tasks. Example: "In the morning rush, I found myself scrambling around the house looking for my keys."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

"He's tough when he's scrambling around," safety Mike Minter said.

The New York Times - Sports

Opening closets, pulling out drawers, scrambling around and pulling out things, throwing them back, heaving deep sighs, looking totally desperate.

Stanford University

I think one series, or half of a series, we were scrambling around, but we adjusted to that tempo.

The New York Times

But like McNabb, if he gets loose in your secondary and starts scrambling around, you're in trouble".

The New York Times - Sports

"We were scrambling around, looking to see if there were more, and then we realised, we should really have safety ropes and stuff around us," he said.

BBC

We were desperately scrambling around...

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

I scrambled around looking for kids.

The Guardian

But when Hall heard the ball hit, he scrambled around.

The New York Times - Sports

"Then some employees from the heliport scrambled around and lowered ladders into the water.

The New York Times

The Devils scrambled around Carolina goaltender Cam Ward in the final seconds, but they could not shove the puck past him.

The New York Times - Sports

Drury sat dejected while locker-room attendants scrambled around, gathering the Rangers' gear for their flight Sunday night to St . Louis

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "scrambling around" to vividly depict a situation where characters or entities are moving quickly and somewhat haphazardly, often in response to a pressing need or sudden change. For a more formal tone, consider alternatives like "expediting efforts" or "accelerating actions."

Common error

Avoid using "scrambling around" in contexts that require a sense of calm or professionalism. The phrase carries a connotation of disarray, which can be inappropriate in formal reports or serious discussions. Choose more measured language, such as "working diligently" or "actively seeking."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "scrambling around" functions as a phrasal verb, describing a manner of movement characterized by haste and disorganization. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in describing both physical actions and figurative situations, such as companies responding to market changes.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "scrambling around" effectively describes hurried and somewhat disorganized movement or activity. Ludwig examples confirm its frequent use in News & Media and Academia, suggesting a Neutral register. While grammatically correct, it's crucial to consider the connotation of disarray and choose more formal alternatives when appropriate. Related phrases like "rushing about" and "hurrying around" offer alternative ways to express quick movement, while "frantically searching" highlights the desperation of a search. Remember to avoid using the expression in overly formal contexts. The expression is considered correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rushing about

Focuses more on speed and less on disorganization.

hurrying around

Similar to "rushing about", emphasizing quick movement.

scurrying around

Implies small, quick movements, like a small animal.

scrambling to find

Focuses on the act of scrambling in order to locate something.

fussing about

Indicates nervous or agitated activity, often about minor details.

darting around

Emphasizes sudden, rapid movements in different directions.

flitting about

Suggests light, quick movements, often aimless.

scuttling around

Suggests hurried and slightly clumsy movement.

hustling about

Implies energetic and busy movement, often with a purpose.

frantically searching

Highlights the desperation and urgency of the search.

FAQs

How can I use "scrambling around" in a sentence?

You can use "scrambling around" to describe someone moving quickly and often clumsily, like "The children were scrambling around the yard looking for Easter eggs".

What does "scrambling around" imply?

"Scrambling around" implies a hurried, disorganized search or activity. It suggests a lack of planning and a sense of urgency.

What can I say instead of "scrambling around"?

You can use alternatives like "rushing about", "hurrying around", or "frantically searching" depending on the context.

When is it inappropriate to use "scrambling around"?

It's inappropriate to use "scrambling around" in formal or professional contexts where a sense of calm and organization is expected. Use more formal alternatives in those situations.