Wild-goose chase meaning

A wild-goose chase is a futile pursuit or a fruitless quest after something unattainable or impractical.


Wild-goose chase definitions

Word backwards esoog-dliw esahc
Part of speech The part of speech of "wild-goose chase" depends on how it is used in a sentence. In general, "wild-goose chase" can function as a noun. It refers to a futile or fruitless search or pursuit.
Syllabic division wild-goose chase: wild-goose chase
Plural The plural of wild-goose chase is wild-goose chases.
Total letters 14
Vogais (4) i,o,e,a
Consonants (7) w,l,d,g,s,c,h

Understanding the Wild-goose Chase

A wild-goose chase refers to a fruitless and unproductive pursuit or endeavor. The term originates from the seemingly impossible task of catching a wild goose, a bird known for its unpredictable nature and ability to fly long distances quickly. Engaging in a wild-goose chase typically leads to wasted time, energy, and resources without achieving the desired outcome.

Origin of the Phrase

The phrase "wild-goose chase" dates back to the 16th century and is believed to have been derived from the sport of falconry. Hunters would release a trained falcon to pursue a wild goose in flight, a pursuit often ending in failure as geese are difficult to catch. Over time, the term evolved to describe any futile or hopeless quest.

Characteristics of a Wild-goose Chase

Engaging in a wild-goose chase can be characterized by chasing after something that is unattainable, unrealistic, or constantly moving out of reach. It often involves following misleading or false leads, leading individuals further away from their intended goal. This can result in frustration, disappointment, and a sense of wasted effort.

Avoiding a Wild-goose Chase

To avoid falling into the trap of a wild-goose chase, it is essential to evaluate the feasibility and potential outcomes of any pursuit before committing time and resources. Setting clear goals, conducting thorough research, and staying focused on achievable objectives can help prevent aimless endeavors. It is also crucial to be open to adjusting plans and strategies based on new information or obstacles encountered along the way.

In conclusion, understanding the concept of a wild-goose chase can help individuals navigate more effectively towards their goals by discerning between worthwhile pursuits and fruitless endeavors. By staying vigilant, maintaining a realistic perspective, and adapting to challenges, one can avoid getting caught up in a pursuit that leads nowhere. Remember, not every chase is worth pursuing – choose wisely and invest your efforts where they truly matter.


Wild-goose chase Examples

  1. After hours of searching, the lost keys turned out to be on a wild-goose chase in the coat pocket.
  2. The detective realized he had been on a wild-goose chase when the suspect's alibi checked out.
  3. Trying to convince her to go skydiving was a wild-goose chase; she was too scared of heights.
  4. The salesman felt like he was on a wild-goose chase when none of his leads resulted in a sale.
  5. The treasure map turned out to be a wild-goose chase, leading them in circles around the island.
  6. The search for the legendary unicorn turned into a wild-goose chase as no evidence of its existence was found.
  7. The quest for the perfect gift for her mother felt like a wild-goose chase until she found the antique necklace.
  8. The job interview seemed promising at first, but after multiple rounds, it felt like a wild-goose chase.
  9. Trying to track down the rare bird species for their research project turned into a wild-goose chase.
  10. Despite following the map closely, they ended up going on a wild-goose chase searching for the hidden waterfall.


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  • Updated 18/04/2024 - 19:42:31