Put/throw somebody off the scent

phrase

To mislead someone from discovering or pursuing an intended goal or course of action.

The thief dumped some of the stolen goods to throw the police off the scent.
Visual representation of "put/throw somebody off the scent" - To mislead someone from discovering or pursuing an intended goal or course of action.

Often appears as...

  • throw the police off the scent
  • put him off the scent

Usage tips

Idiomatic

phrase

To mislead someone from discovering or pursuing an intended goal or course of action.

The thief dumped some of the stolen goods to throw the police off the scent.
Visual representation of "put/throw somebody off the scent" - To mislead someone from discovering or pursuing an intended goal or course of action.

Often appears as...

  • throw the police off the scent
  • put him off the scent

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "put/throw somebody off the scent"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Idiomatic Origins

This phrase originates from hunting where dogs are misled by a changed or masked scent.

Illustration for Idiomatic Origins
He shared false rumors to put the competitors off the scent of his company's new strategy.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Figurative Use

The phrase is often used figuratively to mean distracting someone from finding the truth or real intention.

Illustration for Figurative Use
In debates, misquoting statistics may throw the opponent off the scent.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Deception Involved

Using the phrase implies an intentional act to deceive or confuse, rather than a misunderstanding.

Illustration for Deception Involved
She changed the subject to throw her friend off the scent of the surprise birthday party.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Idiomatic Origins

This phrase originates from hunting where dogs are misled by a changed or masked scent.

Illustration for Idiomatic Origins
He shared false rumors to put the competitors off the scent of his company's new strategy.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Figurative Use

The phrase is often used figuratively to mean distracting someone from finding the truth or real intention.

Illustration for Figurative Use
In debates, misquoting statistics may throw the opponent off the scent.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Deception Involved

Using the phrase implies an intentional act to deceive or confuse, rather than a misunderstanding.

Illustration for Deception Involved
She changed the subject to throw her friend off the scent of the surprise birthday party.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Idiomatic Origins

This phrase originates from hunting where dogs are misled by a changed or masked scent.

Illustration for Idiomatic Origins
He shared false rumors to put the competitors off the scent of his company's new strategy.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Figurative Use

The phrase is often used figuratively to mean distracting someone from finding the truth or real intention.

Illustration for Figurative Use
In debates, misquoting statistics may throw the opponent off the scent.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Deception Involved

Using the phrase implies an intentional act to deceive or confuse, rather than a misunderstanding.

Illustration for Deception Involved
She changed the subject to throw her friend off the scent of the surprise birthday party.
Visual representation of the word "Put/throw somebody off the scent"

Never forget "Put/throw somebody off the scent"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top