run something up the flagpole

English

Etymology

Short form of run it up the flagpole, to see who salutes.

Verb

run (something) up the flagpole

  1. (transitive, idiomatic) To propose an idea or make a suggestion in order to learn the reaction of others to it.
    The idea might not be so bad; why don't you run it up the flagpole at the next board meeting?
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