rummage randomly

[/ˈrʌmɪdʒ ˈrændəmli/]
verb phrase
mexer/remexer desordenadamente
1. to search through something in a disorganized or haphazard manner, turning things over without a systematic approach
She rummaged randomly through the drawer looking for her keys.
Ela mexeu desordenadamente na gaveta procurando suas chaves.
2. to move things around carelessly while searching, without any particular plan or direction
He rummaged randomly through the boxes in the attic.
Ele remexeu aleatoriamente nas caixas do sótão.
This phrase is commonly used in both American English and Brazilian Portuguese to describe the frustrated searching behavior of someone looking for a lost item. In Brazil, it often carries a tone of resignation or mild exasperation, while in American contexts it may emphasize the thorough but chaotic nature of the search.
NYC Slang
dig around / poke around
Synonyms / Sinônimos
search haphazardlysift through carelesslypoke arounddig through unsystematically
Antonyms / Antônimos
search methodicallyorganize carefullysort systematically

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
mexer desordenadamente
most common translation in everyday Brazilian Portuguese
Rio de Janeiro
remexer na bagunça
emphasizes the chaotic nature of the search
São Paulo
procurar à toa
colloquial expression meaning to search aimlessly
Portugal
revirar desordenadamente
European Portuguese preference for 'revirar' over 'mexer'

Related Words

rummagesearchforageexplorescrambledisarray

Related Idioms & Phrases

turn something inside out
turn something upside down
tear a place apart
go through with a fine-tooth comb
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