- To go through a series of complicated, time-consuming, or arbitrary procedures, often seen as bureaucratic obstacles, in order to achieve a goal.
Explanation
Origin
- Evokes the image of circus animals (like dogs or tigers) being trained to jump through hoops on command.
- This implies the tasks are difficult, possibly demeaning, and required by someone in authority, rather than being inherently meaningful.
- The phrase dates to the early 20th century.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Deal with a ton of red tape.
- Go through the wringer. (Experience a difficult ordeal)
- It's a whole song and dance. (A complicated, possibly unnecessary process)
- A major hassle.
Vulgar/Emphatic (Expressing strong frustration):
- Go through all that bullshit.
- Deal with a shitload of paperwork.
- Fuckin' bureaucracy.
Milder/Standard:
- Complete complex procedures.
- Navigate the requirements.
- Overcome bureaucratic obstacles.
- Follow a lengthy process.
Situational Appropriateness
- Mostly informal to semi-formal.
- Common when discussing frustrating dealings with large organizations, government agencies, or complex procedures.
- Might sound unprofessional if used to complain excessively about standard procedures in a formal work setting, but acceptable to describe genuinely cumbersome processes.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Explain the circus animal origin and that it refers to difficult, often unnecessary procedures required by authority, not physical jumping.
Examples
- We had to jump through so many hoops to get our visa approved.
- To get reimbursed, employees have to jump through hoops with paperwork.
- I'm tired of jumping through hoops for this company.
Dialogue
Ali: Did you finally get the permit for the renovation?
Beth: Yes, finally! But honestly, the amount of paperwork and inspections... we had to jump through so many hoops. It took weeks!
Ali: I know, the city bureaucracy is insane. Glad you got it sorted, though.
Social Media Examples
- Facebook Post: Trying to get a refund from [Company] feels like jumping through hoops! On hold for an hour, filled out three forms, still no resolution. 😤 #CustomerServiceFail #Bureaucracy
- Tweet: The process to apply for small business grants involves jumping through so many hoops. Wish they'd streamline it! #smallbiz #entrepreneur
Response Patterns
- Ugh, tell me about it. It's ridiculous.
- That sounds exhausting.
- Why do they make it so complicated?
- Bureaucracy at its finest.
- Sympathetic agreement or sharing of similar experiences.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After someone complains about jumping through hoops:
- Listeners might ask for specifics: What did you have to do?
- They might offer sympathy or commiserate.
- They might ask if the goal was ultimately achieved.
Conversation Starter
- No.
- Used to describe a frustrating process, usually when complaining or explaining a delay/difficulty.
Intonation
- Usually expressed with frustration, annoyance, or weariness.
- Emphasis on JUMP through HOOPS.
Generation Differences
- Widely understood and used across generations, as bureaucratic hurdles are a common experience.
Regional Variations
- Common in all major English-speaking regions.