Run Something up the Flagpole

What Does "Run Something up the Flagpole" Mean?

"Run something up the flagpole" is an English idiom. It means "to introduce, propose, or suggest an idea, plan, or concept for consideration or discussion; to present something for evaluation or feedback."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "run something up the flagpole" used in a sentence:

• Before implementing the new policy, the manager decided to run it up the flagpole to get input from the team.
• The marketing team ran the campaign idea up the flagpole, seeking approval and feedback from senior management.
• Innovation thrives when employees are encouraged to run their ideas up the flagpole, fostering a culture of collaboration and creativity.

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "Run Something up the Flagpole" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

A Quick Test

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