rɛd ˈhɛr.ɪŋ
Colors
neutral
intermediate
- Literally:
- a herring fish that is red in color
What does "red herring" mean?
- something that misleads or distracts from the real issue
- a false clue or irrelevant topic introduced to divert attention
Examples
- The detective realized that the suspicious neighbor was just a red herring.
- The politician's mention of immigration was a red herring to distract from the economy.
- Mystery writers love to plant red herrings to keep readers guessing.
Origin
From the practice of using smoked (red) herring to train hunting hounds by dragging the strong-smelling fish across a trail. First used figuratively in the early 19th century by journalist William Cobbett.
How to use it
Very widely used in literature, film criticism, political discourse, and everyday conversation.
Similar expressions
distraction
diversion
false lead
smokescreen
Opposites
key clue
real issue
relevant point
Related idioms
- black and white
clearly defined with no ambiguity
- silver lining
a positive aspect of an otherwise bad situation
- grey area
a situation or topic that is unclear or not well-defined
- give the green light
to give permission or approval to proceed
- black sheep
a member of a group who is considered different or disreputable
- golden opportunity
an excellent or ideal chance that may not come again
Use it in a practice answer
Try "red herring" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.