English · Daily Life
a wild goose chase
/ə waɪld ɡuːs tʃeɪs/
[/ə waɪld ɡuːs tʃeɪs/]
futile search
Intermediatephrase
Definition
A long and useless search for something that is difficult or impossible to find.
Example
The vague directions sent us on a wild goose chase around the city for the whole afternoon.
The vague directions sent us on a wild goose chase around the city for the whole afternoon.
Etymology
From a Tudor horse-racing game; Shakespeare uses the phrase in 'Romeo and Juliet'.
How & Where It’s Used
Common for a frustrating, fruitless pursuit.
Literary Heritage
Used by Shakespeare in 'Romeo and Juliet' (c. 1595), Act II, Scene IV.