hold with the hare and run with the hounds: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘hold with the hare and run with the hounds’ mean?
The idiom "hold with the hare and run with the hounds" means to support or be loyal to two opposing factions, causes, or groups. It suggests being deceitful or indecisive by trying to please both sides.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "hold up one's end" means to fulfill one's responsibilities or contribute one's fair share in a group or partnership.
The idiom "hold together" means to stay unified, despite challenges or difficulties, and not fall apart or disintegrate.
The idiom "hold the reins" means to have control or be in charge of a situation or group of people.
The idiom "hold the line" means to remain in a current position or keep a situation stable, often in the face of difficulty or opposition.
The idiom "hold the cards" means to have the control or power in a situation.
The idiom *hold tack* means to continue with an activity or plan even when facing challenges or obstacles. It suggests perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.
The idiom "hold someone's feet to the fire" means to put pressure on someone or hold them accountable for their actions or words.
The idiom "hold onto your hat" means to prepare oneself for something surprising or exciting that is about to happen. It is often used to indicate that someone should be ready for a fast or unpredictable experience.
Hidden Loyalties
The idiom "hold with the hare and run with the hounds" is an English expression that dates back to at least the 16th century. It is used to describe someone who tries to support or please two opposing sides or parties, often by being hypocritical or playing both sides of a conflict. The idiom is derived from the image of a hunter who would simultaneously hold onto a hare while using a pack of hounds to pursue it. This contradictory behavior reflects the inherent tension between indulging conflicting interests.
One possible origin of this idiom can be traced back to the medieval sport of hunting, which was highly popular among the English aristocracy. The hunter's dilemma of choosing between the hare and the hounds represents a moral conflict between conflicting obligations. This idiom has also been interpreted as a metaphor for political situations where individuals or groups try to appease different factions with conflicting interests.
The idiom "hold with the hare and run with the hounds" is often used to criticize individuals who try to keep one foot in each camp, demonstrating a lack of integrity or loyalty. It signifies a sense of duplicity or the ability to change one's allegiances based on convenience or self-interest. This idiom highlights the tension between conflicting desires and the difficulty of maintaining neutrality while satisfying opposing parties.
Furthermore, the idiom "hold with the hare and run with the hounds" carries a sense of paradox and the complexities of human behavior. It signifies the delicate balancing act of attempting to navigate divergent interests without fully committing to either. This can be seen in various contexts, such as interpersonal relationships, politics, or business situations.
The related idiom "hold firm" shares a similar theme of maintaining a steadfast position. It refers to the act of remaining firm in one's beliefs, principles, or decisions. When someone "holds firm," they stand their ground and do not waver in the face of opposition or pressure. This idiom emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and holding onto one's convictions.
The related idiom "hold fast" also conveys a strong sense of determination and resolve. It means to firmly grasp or cling onto something, both literally and metaphorically. When someone "holds fast," they hold onto their beliefs, values, or goals, refusing to let go or be swayed. This idiom reflects the idea of staying steadfast and resolute in the face of challenges or temptations.
Due to the idiomatic nature of this expression, its meaning is not transparent and may require some cultural and historical knowledge to fully grasp its implications. Understanding the origin of idioms is essential in comprehending their broader implications. The idiom "hold with the hare and run with the hounds" serves as a reminder of the intricacies of human nature and the challenges of reconciling conflicting forces within ourselves and society.
This idiom opens the door for broader contemplation on topics such as hypocrisy, moral ambiguity, and the human capacity for duality. It invites us to reflect on our own actions and choices, considering the potential conflicts and contradictions inherent within them. As with many idioms, the precise meaning and interpretation can vary depending on the context in which it is used.
Example usage
1. She is always trying to hold with the hare and run with the hounds by expressing support for both political parties, depending on who she is talking to.
2. The CEO was accused of holding with the hare and running with the hounds when he publicly criticized his own company while secretly investing in a competitor.
3. The politician tried to hold with the hare and run with the hounds by making promises to both sides of the issue, but ultimately lost the trust of voters.
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