Juggling: meaning, definitions and examples

🤹
Add to dictionary

juggling

 

[ ˈdʒʌɡəlɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

circus performance

The act of keeping several objects in motion in the air at the same time by repeatedly throwing and catching them.

Synonyms

balancing, manipulation, tossing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
juggling

Used when referring to the act of keeping multiple objects in the air by frequently tossing and catching them. Also used metaphorically to describe managing multiple tasks or responsibilities.

  • She impressed everyone by juggling three balls at once.
  • I'm juggling work, school, and family responsibilities right now.
balancing

Used when referring to maintaining stability or equilibrium, physically or metaphorically. Often used when discussing achieving a state of even distribution or managing different aspects of life to avoid tipping over.

  • He is balancing on the tightrope with great skill.
  • She is trying to balance her career and personal life.
manipulation

Used when referring to skillful or dexterous handling of objects or situations. Can have a negative connotation when used to describe controlling or influencing people in an unsavory way.

  • His manipulation of the puppet was outstanding.
  • She has a knack for the manipulation of social situations, often for her own benefit.
tossing

Used when referring to throwing something lightly or casually. Often used to describe an action that seems effortless or done without much care.

  • He was tossing the ball to his dog.
  • She kept tossing her hair back out of her face.

Examples of usage

  • He entertained the crowd with his impressive juggling skills.
  • She practiced juggling with balls, clubs, and rings.
  • The highlight of the show was the synchronized juggling routine.
Context #2 | Noun

managing multiple tasks

The practice of dealing with many activities or problems at the same time, especially in a skillful way.

Synonyms

balancing, multi-tasking, prioritizing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
juggling

Managing multiple tasks or responsibilities simultaneously, often with a sense of skill and adaptability. It has a vivid, informal vibe.

  • She's juggling three different projects at work right now.
  • Juggling family and career can be very demanding.
multi-tasking

Performing multiple tasks at the same time. It usually refers to the ability to handle several activities in rapid succession or simultaneously. It can have a neutral to positive connotation.

  • Multi-tasking is important in a fast-paced office environment.
  • She was multi-tasking by answering emails while attending the meeting.
balancing

Maintaining equilibrium among different tasks, roles, or responsibilities. It's often used in more formal or general discussions.

  • Work-life balancing is essential for mental health.
  • He is balancing his education and part-time job effectively.
prioritizing

Deciding the order of tasks based on their importance. It often refers to a thoughtful process of ranking activities by urgency or significance.

  • Successful time management involves prioritizing your tasks well.
  • He is good at prioritizing work to meet deadlines.

Examples of usage

  • She is a master of juggling her work and personal life.
  • Juggling deadlines and priorities can be challenging in a fast-paced environment.

Translations

Translations of the word "juggling" in other languages:

🇵🇹 malabarismo

🇮🇳 जॉगलिंग

🇩🇪 Jonglieren

🇮🇩 sulap

🇺🇦 жонглювання

🇵🇱 żonglerka

🇯🇵 ジャグリング

🇫🇷 jonglage

🇪🇸 malabarismo

🇹🇷 jigolo

🇰🇷 저글링

🇸🇦 تلاعب

🇨🇿 žonglování

🇸🇰 žonglovanie

🇨🇳 杂耍

🇸🇮 žongliranje

🇮🇸 sjónarspil

🇰🇿 жонглерлік

🇬🇪 ჟონგლიორობა

🇦🇿 jonqlyor

🇲🇽 malabarismo

Etymology

The word 'juggling' originated from the Middle English word 'jogelen', which came from the Old French 'jogler'. The practice of juggling has a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations where it was often used for entertainment and performance art. Over the years, juggling has evolved into a popular form of entertainment seen in circuses, street performances, and even as a hobby for many enthusiasts.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,252, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.