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Definitions

red herring

[red her-ing] / ˈrɛd ˈhɛr ɪŋ /
NOUN
misleading clue
Synonyms
STRONGEST
ploy smokescreen
WEAK
attention-grabber bait commotion curve ball deviation distraction distractor disturbance diversion diversionary tactic false clue false face false trail fool's errand gimmick interruption maneuver wild-goose chase

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Just recall, though, that “This time is different” is a notorious red herring.

From Barron's • Feb. 25, 2026

Cardenas, noting that all the contributions he receives from those who come before the board are fully disclosed, calls the issue a red herring.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 22, 2025

But I also think the question itself is a red herring.

From Slate • Nov. 9, 2025

"The initial narrative has proven a bit of a red herring," said Mill Pond Research's Caen.

From BBC • Aug. 9, 2025

Or do you suppose this is a red herring and that the abandonment of the gold standard is at the root of the matter?'

From "The Remains of the Day" by Kazuo Ishiguro