Run something up the flagpole
Meaning
To propose an idea or plan informally to gauge initial reactions and feedback from a group or public.
Origin
This vivid idiom emerged in mid-20th-century American business and political discourse, drawing its power from a direct military metaphor. It likens the act of testing a new idea or proposal to raising a flag—a new banner, perhaps—to see who salutes it or how the public reacts. The unstated question often following the phrase is 'and see who salutes it,' implying a test of acceptance, enthusiasm, or opposition without full commitment. Just as a commander might hoist a signal flag to gauge a fleet's readiness or a politician might float a concept to test public opinion, this phrase captures the strategic, tentative nature of presenting an idea for its initial, crucial judgment.
Examples
- Before we finalize the new product design, let's run it up the flagpole with a focus group to see their initial impressions.
- The manager decided to run his controversial policy proposal up the flagpole during the team meeting to test the waters for support.