back the wrong horse
Support or bet on a person, plan, or choice that turns out to be unsuccessful.
back the wrong horse
Support or bet on a person, plan, or choice that turns out to be unsuccessful.
Learning Progress
Examples
"We backed the wrong horse when we invested in that failing company. Means: We supported an investment that turned out badly."
"She realized she had backed the wrong horse after the candidate lost. Means: She realized that the candidate she supported had not succeeded."
Mnemonic Trick
Picture betting on the horse that loses the race.
Cultural Context
Used in politics, business, and everyday decisions; the expression draws on horse-racing imagery.
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