The manager plays games while the company fails, fiddling while Rome burns.
fiddle while Rome burns
idiomTo neglect helping when one’s time is needed most; to ignore the major problem at hand (whilst doing something less important); to be idle, inactive, or uninterested in a time of great need.
Origin
disputed originFrom the ancient rumour that the Roman emperor Nero played a lyre during the Great Fire of Rome (AD 64).
The city faces a major crisis, yet the leaders argue about minor details, effectively fiddling while Rome burns.
While the nation faced an economic collapse, the elite continued their lavish parties, callously fiddling while Rome burns.
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all roads lead to Rome
Different paths can take one to the same goal.
- 02
hang up one's fiddle
Synonym of hang up one's boots.
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play first fiddle
To play a leading role.
- 04
play second fiddle
To play a subsidiary or subordinate role to someone or something else.
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play someone like a fiddle
To play (manipulate) (a person) skillfully.
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Rome wasn't built in a day
It takes a long time to create something complicated or impressive.
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second fiddle
A sidekick or subordinate, or the role of such a person.
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when in Rome, do as the Romans do
It is wise to adapt to the circumstances; it is wise to follow common custom.