Example: Cuando no sabía qué hacer, empezó a dar palos de ciego.
Definition
"Dar palos de ciego" is a Spanish expression meaning to act in a confused or aimless manner, often making futile attempts to solve a problem without a clear plan or direction, as illustrated by the phrase 'Cuando no sabía qué hacer, empezó a dar palos de ciego.'
Translations
to grope in the dark
maar wat aanmodderen
anar a les palpentes
agir à l'aveuglette
im Dunkeln tappen
Etymology
The phrase "dar palos de ciego" literally means 'to give blind blows.' It originates from the idea of someone striking around blindly with a stick, trying to find something without seeing it. This vivid metaphor captures the sense of fumbling or groping in the dark when unsure what to do.
Learn to use this expression actively
"Dar palos de ciego" appears in the Vocaplus list "Spanish - General - Modismos y refranes - (C2) - parte 1", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
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to grope in the dark