Groundhog Day
Groundhog Day (noun) means a situation in which the same events repeat over and over with no progress and no escape. Example: “Every meeting covers the same five objections — it's Groundhog Day in there.”
How to use Groundhog Day
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishWhen the same day or situation keeps repeating with nothing changing.
The figurative sense is informal and now far more common in conversation than the holiday itself outside North America. Usually capitalised even when used figuratively.
The phrase implies frustration at being stuck, not merely repetition — a pleasant routine would not be called Groundhog Day.
Trace the full origin ↓Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Every meeting covers the same five objections — it's _____ in there.
Etymology
From the North American folk tradition of 2 February; the figurative sense comes from the 1993 film Groundhog Day, in which the main character relives the same day repeatedly.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for Groundhog Day
See all rhymes for Groundhog Day →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Groundhog Day and déjà vu?
Déjà vu is the fleeting feeling that you have already experienced a moment, usually mistaken. Groundhog Day describes a real, verifiable repetition — the same meeting, argument or day genuinely happening again — and carries frustration rather than eeriness.
When is Groundhog Day?
2 February each year, marked chiefly in the United States and Canada, with the best-known ceremony at Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania.
What is the meaning of Groundhog Day?
"Groundhog Day" (noun) means a situation in which the same events repeat over and over with no progress and no escape.
What is another word for Groundhog Day?
Other words for "Groundhog Day" include a vicious circle, déjà vu, the same old story, a treadmill.