Idiom
wild goose chase
Meanings
A futile or misleading search that wastes time because the goal is impossible or not real.
Definition
A wild goose chase is a pointless search that leads nowhere.
A wild goose chase is an effort to find or achieve something that is unlikely to exist or succeed. It usually involves wasting time and energy by following false clues or bad information. People use it when they realize the search was futile or when they warn someone not to start it.
Examples
- Looking for that file on his old laptop turned into a wild goose chase.
- The detective realized the tip was a wild goose chase.
- We went on a wild goose chase trying to find the so-called secret entrance.
- Don’t send me on a wild goose chase—tell me the real address.
- Chasing those rumors was a wild goose chase from the start.
More at B2 level
- Bob's your uncle Used to say that something will be easy or will happen exactly as expected after a simple step.
- touch base To touch base means to briefly contact someone to share a quick update or confirm plans.
- ballpark figure A ballpark figure is an approximate number or estimate, not an exact one.
- take the mickey To take the mickey means to tease someone or make fun of them in a not-too-serious way.
- cheap as chips Very cheap; costing very little money.
More noun phrases
- ballpark figure A ballpark figure is an approximate number or estimate, not an exact one.
- gravy train A gravy train is an easy, steady way to make a lot of money with little effort.
- green thumb A green thumb is a natural skill at growing and caring for plants.
- mug's game A mug's game is an activity that is pointless or likely to end badly for the person doing it.
- level playing field A level playing field is a situation where everyone has the same opportunities and no unfair advant…