I spend all day fighting fires at the office.
fight fires
idiomTo deal with urgent matters and minor emergencies rather than longer-term work.
The manager could not finish the project because she spent the entire week fighting fires instead.
Instead of focusing on long-term strategy, the team spent their limited resources fighting fires caused by the sudden collapse of the supply chain.
- 01
bun fight
A debate or disagreement, usually with several parties involved, often political in nature.
- 02
fight a losing battle
To attempt a task or other endeavor in which there is no chance that it will succeed.
- 03
fight fire with fire
To respond to an attack with a similar or identical counter-attack (e.g. to respond to gunfire with reciprocal gunfire).
- 04
fight for one's life
To be in danger of dying (as a result of injury, illness etc.).
- 05
fight one's corner
To vigorously promote or defend one's interests, views, etc.
- 06
fight shy
To avoid meeting at a close distance or at close quarters; to keep out of reach, to avoid.
- 07
keep the home fires burning
To maintain daily routine and provide the necessities of life in a home or community.