ə ˈstɔːkɪŋ hɔːrs
Animals
formal
advanced
- Literally:
- A horse used as cover while stalking prey
What does "a stalking horse" mean?
A person or thing used to conceal real intentions or test public opinion
Examples
- Many believed the minor candidate was merely a stalking horse.
- The proposal was a stalking horse designed to test public reaction.
- Critics accused the small company of being a stalking horse for a larger corporation.
Origin
From medieval hunting practice. Political sense developed in the 16th century.
How to use it
Primarily used in political and business contexts.
Similar expressions
front
decoy
proxy
figurehead
Opposites
genuine candidate
transparent action
Related idioms
- kill two birds with one stone
To accomplish two goals with a single action
- let the cat out of the bag
To reveal a secret accidentally
- elephant in the room
An obvious problem or issue that everyone is aware of but no one wants to discuss
- don't count your chickens before they hatch
Don't assume success before it actually happens
- hold your horses
To wait and be patient
- fish out of water
Someone who feels awkward or uncomfortable in a particular situation
Use it in a practice answer
Try "a stalking horse" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.