It takes a long time to destroy something complicated or impressive.

(idiomatic) To neglect helping when one’s time is needed most; to ignore the major problem at hand (whilst doing something less important); to be idle, inactive, or uninterested in a time of great need.

simple past tense and past participle of fiddle while Rome burns

Third-person singular simple present indicative form of fiddle while Rome burns

present participle of fiddle while Rome burns

simple past tense and past participle of fiddle while Rome burns

(strictly) When in a foreign place, suit behavior or appearance to the local culture. / (loosely, idiomatic) Adapt to the circumstances; follow common custom.

(uncommon) Alternative form of when in Rome, do as the Romans do

(colloquial) A boyfriend. / A man who has a reputation for being a great lover or very romantic. / (espionage) A spy specialised in seducing persons of interest, in particular a man targeting women.

A male given name from the Romance languages. / One of the main characters of Romeo and Juliet made famous by William Shakespeare: the ardent lover of Juliet.