muddle through

verb

muddled through; muddling through; muddles through

intransitive verb

: to achieve a degree of success without much planning or effort

Examples of muddle through in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Wall Street has been looking for any sign of relief that the economy might be muddling through the uncertainty stoked by Trump’s tariffs. John Towfighi, CNN Money, 6 June 2025 Although the Chinese government’s focus on manufacturing has turned it into a major economic and geopolitical power, China has been muddling through a slowing economy after a real estate crisis and COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns weakened consumer spending. Will Weissert, Los Angeles Times, 5 June 2025 The optimistic scenario for the Kremlin is that Russians tighten their belts and muddle through. Chris Miller, Foreign Affairs, 2 Sep. 2022 These patches will help Europe muddle through immediate turmoil but will not solve the continent’s most fundamental political and security challenges. Sophia Besch, Foreign Affairs, 5 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for muddle through

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1864, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of muddle through was circa 1864

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Cite this Entry

“Muddle through.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/muddle%20through. Accessed 12 Jun. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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