run something up the flagpole: Idiom Meaning and Origin

Run something up the flagpole is an idiom commonly used in American English. The idiom originated from the military practice of raising a flag up a flagpole to signal a message. In a non-literal sense, the idiom means to test or try out an idea, proposal, or suggestion, often to gauge its reaction or reception before fully committing to it.

The exact origins of the idiom are unclear, but it is believed to have emerged in the mid-20th century. The phrase became popularized in American business and political contexts, where it was often used to describe the act of presenting a new concept or strategy to a wider audience to gauge their interest or support.

When someone says they will "run something up the flagpole," they are typically conveying their intention to test the waters or gather feedback on a particular idea or proposal. This act of testing can occur in various contexts, such as a business meeting, a political campaign, or even a casual conversation among friends.

The idiom is frequently used in professional settings, where individuals want to assess the potential success or acceptance of an idea without fully committing to it. It allows for flexibility and the opportunity to refine or revise the concept based on feedback received.

Using the idiom can also serve as a rhetorical device to provoke discussion or stimulate interest in a topic. By presenting an idea as something that will be "run up the flagpole," the speaker can generate curiosity and anticipation among the audience, encouraging them to engage and share their opinions.

The related idiom "raise the flag and see who salutes" is similar to "run something up the flagpole" in that it involves the act of presenting something to gauge its reception. The phrase "raise the flag and see who salutes" implies that the presentation of an idea or proposal will reveal who supports or acknowledges it. It suggests that the response to the idea will be an indicator of its potential success or acceptance.

Another related idiom is "put to the test." This phrase conveys the act of subjecting something to examination or experimentation to determine its quality, effectiveness, or suitability. Similarly, "run something up the flagpole" involves testing or trying out an idea to gauge its reaction or reception before committing to it. By using the idiom "put to the test," speakers can emphasize the idea of subjecting something to scrutiny or evaluation.

Furthermore, the idiom "run something up the flagpole" implies a certain degree of authority or formality, as it harkens back to the military tradition of raising a flag to convey a significant message. By invoking this imagery, the speaker may add gravitas and importance to the idea being presented.

The idiom "run something up the flagpole" has become a widely used phrase in American English. Its origins lie in the military practice of raising a flag to send a message, and its figurative meaning involves testing an idea or proposal for wider consideration. The idiom conveys the intention to seek feedback or gauge interest without fully committing to a concept. By using this phrase, speakers can stimulate discussion, generate curiosity, and add a sense of authority to their ideas. While the exact origin and early usage of the idiom remain uncertain, its currency and popularity endure, making it a valuable tool in the communicator's arsenal.