Meaning of "can't tell if he's coming or going"
I've heard this phrase in some lyrics and even read it in some online articles.
don't know if he's coming or going
What's the meaning and correct usage of coming or going?
Solution 1:
Here is one source I can find after a quick search: idioms.thefreedictionary.com
not know whether one is coming or going
Fig. to be very confused.
- I'm so busy that I don't know if I'm coming or going.
- You look as if you don't know whether you're coming or going.
That would fit with the songs:
- Coming Or Going (Lyrics) by Jean Shepard
- I don't know if I'm coming or going (Lyrics) by Billie Holiday
The last example is telling:
You've got me on the road
Runnin' to and fro
Lookin' high and low
I don't know if I'm coming or going
Since I fell for youI run up across the town
Chasing up and down
Having you around
I don't know if I'm coming or going
Since I fell for you