Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for trial balloon. Search instead for tragballon.
Definitions

trial balloon

NOUN
test
Synonyms
WEAK
ballon d'essai barometer feeler fishing question pilot balloon test of public reaction toe in the water

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.

That trial balloon seems to have been shot down.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 22, 2026

We haven't heard anything further much about that since it was first floated — maybe it was a trial balloon that fizzled.

From Salon • May 12, 2025

One thing is certain: Gaetz will serve as a trial balloon, even if his nomination is deadly serious.

From Slate • Nov. 13, 2024

“This film carries messages that serve as a trial balloon for ideas that are alien to us,” said Tamer Amin, a popular late-night host on Egyptian television.

From New York Times • Feb. 17, 2022

"I think we're being used as a trial balloon," Purdy said thoughtfully.

From The Flying Saucers are Real by Keyhoe, Donald E. (Donald Edward)