On a fishing expedition: Learn what the means through example!

What does “On a fishing expedition” mean?

"On a fishing expedition" means engaging in a search or investigation without a clear purpose or goal.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He spent the whole day on a fishing expedition looking for his missing keys.

Example

The detective went on a fishing expedition to gather more information about the case.

Example

The journalist went on a fishing expedition to find a new story to write about

Is “On a fishing expedition” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“On a fishing expedition” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “On a fishing expedition” effectively in context?

You can use "On a fishing expedition" to describe someone who is engaging in a search or investigation without a clear purpose or goal. It implies that the person is exploring or probing for information, often in a random or aimless manner. For example, if someone is searching for their missing keys by looking in every room and drawer without any specific plan, you could say, 'He spent the whole day on a fishing expedition looking for his missing keys.'

• 1. Lost Items

  She couldn't find her phone, so she went on a fishing expedition through her bag and pockets.

• 2. Investigation

  The detective didn't have any leads, so he decided to go on a fishing expedition to gather more information about the case.

• 3. Journalism

  The journalist was looking for a new story to write about, so she went on a fishing expedition to find interesting topics.

Similar phrases to “On a fishing expedition”:

Wild goose chase

A futile or fruitless search or pursuit

Example

They went on a wild goose chase trying to find the source of the strange noise.

Shot in the dark

An attempt or guess that is unlikely to succeed

Example

He took a shot in the dark and applied for the job, even though he didn't meet all the qualifications.

Cast a wide net

To consider or explore a large range of options or possibilities

Example

They decided to cast a wide net and interview candidates from various backgrounds.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “On a fishing expedition” come from?

The origin of the phrase "On a fishing expedition" is unknown.

Is “On a fishing expedition” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "On a fishing expedition" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where someone is searching or investigating without a clear purpose or goal.

What tone does “On a fishing expedition” have?

"On a fishing expedition" conveys a tone of uncertainty and randomness. It suggests that the person's actions may not be focused or productive, and they are simply exploring or probing without a specific objective in mind.

Can “On a fishing expedition” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "On a fishing expedition" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a common behavior or situation. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional writing.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He spent the whole day on a fishing expedition looking for his missing keys.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time for "a fishing expedition"!' to imply a random search or investigation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• search without purpose
• probe aimlessly
• explore randomly
• investigate without direction

Antonyms

• focused search
• targeted investigation
• purposeful exploration
• directed probe