Wild Goose Chase Meaning, Examples, Synonyms

The meaning of this commonly heard idiom is, ‘Wild Goose Chase‘. This idiom symbolises a hopeless pursuit which will only result in a waste of time and energy. The term has been in common use for a long time. 

The first noted use of this word was in the 16th century. Once, used in a horse race, it defined a weird rule of following the unprecedented course of the lead horse. Everyone horsemen behind the lead horse will have to follow in its footsteps and also finish the race; now this is truly a wild goose chase!

The reference to this idiom is derived from the wild geese. As they walk in a similar fashion. They all follow in the footsteps of their leader who seems utterly confused while moving forward. Looking at their pattern, anyone could tell that the act is unreasonable and unattainable. 

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Usage with Examples

The usage of this phrase is often based on giving advice to someone. A colleague sharing their future endeavours might end up knowing that it is a wild goose chase. 

It can also be used in other contexts such as, to refer to someone’s acts. Nonetheless, the main idea behind using this phrase is to talk about an act. Moreover, this idiom emphasizes the verb section of the sentence and the behaviour of the subject. 

The subject in discussion is often too engrossed in the task that they forget the viability of it. One can use this to talk about fruitless research and successful endeavours. Basically, for every act which seems a waste of time and energy after giving up on it. 

Here are some common examples of the usage of this idiom, 

1. She needs a hike before completing a year, does she not know it is a wild goose chase?
2. We tried to climb the mountain despite the heavy rains, but halfway through we realised it was a wild goose chase. 
3. Asking him to change his mind is a wild goose chase. 
4. Settling in a new city without savings or a job is a wild goose chase. 

Also Read: Useful Idioms with Examples, Sentences and Meanings

Synonyms and Similar Words to Wild Goose Chase

Here are some common words and phrases that mean the same as Wild Goose Chase. 

1. Lost cause
2. Bootless errand
3. Spine hunt
4. Merry chase
5. Fool’s errand
6. Futile 
7. Pointless
8. Wasted effort
9. Spinning one’s wheels
10. Infertile

Wild Goose Chase Meaning Quiz

These children are addicted to begging, ____________ is a wild goose chase.

1. Giving them money
2. Educating them
3. Taking them to a park

Ans. Educating them

Also Read: Idioms for IELTS

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This was all about the idiom get your act together meaning and examples. Hope you understood the concept where it’s used. For more such blogs, follow Leverage Edu.