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Region: General | Usage example: Changing horses in midstream during the merger cost time

Change horses in midstream

Meaning

Switch plans while a process is still underway

Usage

Warns against altering direction midway

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Travel imagery of switching animals mid-river

Used in politics since the 19th century

Related Idioms

Hold your horses

Wait or slow down.

Change of pace

A different style or tempo.

Change your tune

Shift one's attitude, often toward a previously opposed idea.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.