musical chairs
The term "musical chairs" originates from a children's game but is often used metaphorically to describe situations involving frequent changes or shuffling.
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Definition
B1Games
(informal, children)A game where players walk around a set of chairs while music plays, and must sit when the music stops, with one chair fewer than the number of players.
Example
- At the party, the kids had a great time playing musical chairs.
B2Metaphorical
(figurative)A situation involving frequent changes or shuffling of positions, often seen as confusing or pointless.
Example
- The company's constant reorganization felt like a game of musical chairs.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "musical chairs":