Stuck in a rut

Stuck in a rut

Definition
Stuck in a rut
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When someone is “stuck in a rut,” it means that they are in a situation where they are not making any progress or experiencing any change. Imagine a rut as a deep track or groove made by wheels repeatedly passing over the same path. So, being “stuck in a rut” is like being trapped in a pattern of behavior or a routine that’s not leading to any growth or improvement. People might feel stuck in a rut in various aspects of their lives, like work, relationships, or even personal habits. It’s like feeling stagnant or like you’re going through the motions without moving forward. The idiom suggests a feeling of being trapped or unable to break free from a monotonous or unproductive cycle.

Breaking out of a rut often involves making changes, trying new things, or approaching situations differently to spark progress and growth. It’s about stepping out of your comfort zone and seeking new opportunities to move forward.

Example sentences
After years of dating the same type of person, Mark realized he was stuck in a rut and needed to broaden his horizons.
The company had been stuck in a rut with its outdated marketing strategies until they hired a new creative team.
Jack felt like he was stuck in a rut with his cooking skills, so he enrolled in a culinary class to learn new techniques.
The team had been stuck in a rut with their project until they brainstormed fresh ideas that revitalized their approach.
Lisa had been stuck in a rut with her artwork, so she attended an art workshop to explore different styles and techniques.