bumble along
C1 informal inseparable intransitive
In simple words
To keep going in a confused, clumsy way without really knowing what you're doing.
Literal meaning: To move along while bumbling — stumbling or buzzing awkwardly.
Meanings
1 C1
idiomatic
informal
To manage to continue with something in a disorganized, clumsy, or inefficient way, but without a serious crisis.
"The project team bumbled along without clear leadership until a new manager was appointed."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Often used with a mildly affectionate or amused tone. The verb 'bumble' itself suggests clumsy, confused movement (like a bumble bee). Implies the subject is not particularly effective but also not causing serious harm.
Commonly used with
life way somehow years job management
Forms
Base
bumble along
I/you/we/they
3rd person
bumbles along
he/she/it
Past simple
bumbled along
yesterday
Past participle
bumbled along
have + pp
-ing form
bumbling along
continuous
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