three-ring circus
The term "three-ring circus" originates from the circus world, where it describes a setup with three simultaneous performances, and is now used idiomatically to describe chaotic or complex situations.
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Definition
B2Entertainment
(historical, specific)A large circus with three separate performances happening simultaneously in different rings.
Example
- The traditional three-ring circus offers a variety of acts to keep the audience entertained.
B2Everyday Life
(idiomatic)A chaotic or confusing situation with many activities happening at the same time.
Example
- Managing the event felt like running a three-ring circus.
- The office turned into a three-ring circus when the project deadline approached.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "three-ring circus":
circus actflying circusjuggling actbig topdog and pony showcontemporary circusfreak showtriple threat