/wɪl ˈrʌnɪŋ/
The term "wheel running" refers to the practice of running or exercising on a wheel, typically associated with certain animals, like hamsters, that are kept as pets. It can also metaphorically describe a repetitive or cyclical activity that does not lead to meaningful progress or outcome. "Wheel running" is not a common phrase in everyday use; its frequency tends to be more prevalent in discussions about pet care or behavioral studies in animals than in colloquial speech.
In terms of context, it is more often encountered in written form within scientific or niche discussions, as opposed to oral communication.
The hamster kept going round and round in its wheel running throughout the night.
(Translation: El hámster seguía girando en su rueda corriendo toda la noche.)
Wheel running serves as a great way for small animals to exercise indoors.
(Translation: Correr en una rueda sirve como una excelente manera para que los animales pequeños hagan ejercicio en interiores.)
While humans may engage in metaphorical wheel running in their jobs, pets enjoy literal wheel running for fun.
(Translation: Mientras que los humanos pueden participar en correr en la rueda de manera metafórica en sus trabajos, las mascotas disfrutan de correr en la rueda literalmente por diversión.)
"Wheel running" is not directly associated with many idiomatic expressions; however, the concept of "running in circles" or "hamster wheel" is often used to describe a state of futile activity. Here are some idiomatic expressions along those lines:
Translation: Estar en una rueda de hámster significa que uno siente que está esforzándose mucho sin obtener resultados tangibles.
Run around in circles: This expression means to engage in a lot of activity but not making any progress.
Translation: Correr en círculos significa participar en mucha actividad pero no avanzar en nada.
Caught in a rat race: Describes being trapped in a competitive struggle for wealth or power.
Translation: Estar atrapado en una carrera de ratas describe estar atrapado en una lucha competitiva por la riqueza o el poder.
On a treadmill: Refers to being in a situation that requires a lot of work with little or no advancement.
The term "wheel" comes from the Old English word "hwēol," which refers to a circular object that revolves around an axle. The word "running" comes from the Old English "rinnan," meaning to flow, move swiftly, or travel. When combined, "wheel running" creates an image of movement facilitated by a circular device.