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walk and chew gum at the same time

idiom
Meaning

To do two normally trivial tasks at the same time; to exhibit basic competence or task-management skills.


Examples
SIMPLE

He cannot even walk and chew gum at the same time.

CONTEXTUAL

The new manager struggles to answer emails and talk on the phone, as if he cannot walk and chew gum at the same time.

COMPLEX

Critics argued that the candidate lacked the basic focus required to govern, suggesting he could not walk and chew gum at the same time.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    a week is a long time in politics

    In politics, much change can occur in a short space of time.

  2. 02

    about time

    Far past the desired time.

  3. 03

    any time now

    Very soon.

  4. 04

    any time soon

    soon

  5. 05

    ball and Chalk

    [Cockney slang]walk

  6. 06

    better luck next time

    Used to wish somebody hope in future success after a failure.

  7. 07

    bide one's time

    To wait, especially for a suitable opportunity.

  8. 08

    bite off more than one can chew

    To try to do too much; to take on or attempt more than one is capable of doing.

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