What does “That dog won't hunt” mean?

"That dog won't hunt" means that idea or plan won't work or be successful.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I don't think that proposal will be approved. That dog won't hunt.

Example

We need to come up with a better solution. That dog won't hunt.

Example

He keeps insisting on his strategy, but I'm telling you, that dog won't hunt

Is “That dog won't hunt” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“That dog won't hunt” 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 “That dog won't hunt” effectively in context?

You can use "That dog won't hunt" to express doubt or skepticism about an idea, plan, or proposal. It implies that the suggestion or course of action is unlikely to be successful or effective. For example, if someone presents a flawed plan at work, you might say, 'I don't think that proposal will be approved. That dog won't hunt.'

1Work
We need to come up with a better solution. That dog won't hunt.
2Decision Making
He keeps insisting on his strategy, but I'm telling you, that dog won't hunt.
3Evaluation
After reviewing the data, the team concluded that the proposed marketing campaign won't be effective. That dog won't hunt.

Similar phrases to “That dog won't hunt”:

That won't fly

That idea or plan is not acceptable or feasible.

Example

I don't think your excuse for being late will be accepted. That won't fly.

It's a non-starter

That idea or plan has no chance of being successful or accepted.

Example

Proposing such a drastic change in our company's policies is a non-starter.

It's dead in the water

That idea or plan is doomed to fail or be unsuccessful.

Example

The new product launch is dead in the water without proper marketing support.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “That dog won't hunt” come from?

The origin of the phrase "That dog won't hunt" is unknown.

Is “That dog won't hunt” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "That dog won't hunt" is a common expression in everyday conversation. It is often used to convey skepticism or doubt about the viability or success of an idea or plan.

What tone does “That dog won't hunt” have?

"That dog won't hunt" conveys a tone of skepticism and dismissal. It suggests that the idea or plan being discussed is unlikely to work or be successful.

Can “That dog won't hunt” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "That dog won't hunt" is more commonly used in informal settings. It is often used in casual conversations among friends, family, or colleagues. However, it can also be used in more formal situations to express doubt or skepticism about a proposal or plan.

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

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I don't think that proposal will be approved. That dog won't hunt.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'That dog won't hunt!' to express skepticism or doubt.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

that idea won't work
that plan is doomed
that proposal is unlikely to succeed
that strategy is flawed
that approach is ineffective

Antonyms

that idea has potential
that plan is promising
that proposal is likely to succeed
that strategy is solid
that approach is effective