Expressions used in Everyday Spoken English in Social and Professional contexts
all over the (place/shop)
all over the placeall over the shop
Meaning(s)
1) disorganized, a mess, confused or upset
How to MemorizePopularity MediumProfessional MediumSocial
things are all over the place, he/she is a bit all over the place/shop
Analysis
To be 'all over the shop' or 'all over the place' is Irish/UK slang (not usually used in a professional context) meaning that something or someone is disorganised or a mess. This could be a physical mess or a figurative mess: "She has been all over the shop since her dog died. She even forgot to collect her pension." "John is so creative, but his office is all over the place. I can't find anything!" "At the moment your ideas seem to be a bit all over the place. Maybe you should try to clarify them a bit." Use this in a casual context or with friends.
Social Examples (Basic)
I don't think I'll go out tonight. I'm a bit all over the place since I broke up with my boyfriend.
I tried to get focused on my studies again, but I'm just all over the shop since the argument.
Professional Examples (Basic)
Moving to this new office was a disaster. Everything is all over the place.
I'm not sure whether to accept the new job or not. My head is just all over the place.
I thought she'd be good at the job, but she's a bit all over the place. She seems very confused.