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muddle along

B2 informal inseparable intransitive
In simple words

To keep going in a messy, confused way without really knowing what you're doing.

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic informal

To continue existing or functioning in a disorganised or aimless way without improvement.

"Without proper funding, the project just muddled along for years with no real results."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 idiomatic informal

To manage one's life in a disorganised but somehow adequate way.

"After the divorce, he just muddled along for a while before finding his feet again."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Suggests a somewhat pitiful or resigned state — the subject manages to survive but makes no real progress. Often used to describe organisations, relationships, or governments that lack direction. More common in British English.

Commonly used with

somehow indefinitely together economy government relationship

Forms

Base
muddle along
I/you/we/they
3rd person
muddles along
he/she/it
Past simple
muddled along
yesterday
Past participle
muddled along
have + pp
-ing form
muddling along
continuous

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Synonyms

muddle through get by drift along scrape by fumble along cope

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