English

Noun

fool's errand ‎(plural fools' errands)

1. (idiomatic) A foolish undertaking, especially one that is purposeless, fruitless, nonsensical, or certain to fail.
   • 1821, Sir Walter Scott, Kenilworth, ch. 1,

     If I were to travel only that I might be discontented with that which I can get at home, methinks I should go but on a fool's errand.

   • 1988, Michael S. Serrill, "Diplomacy To Dream the Impossible Dream," Time, 7 Mar.,

     Shultz took little notice of the Soviet view or that of others who said his Middle East mission was a fool's errand. "You can't be too afraid of failing," said the 67-year-old diplomat.

2. (idiomatic) Such an undertaking, assigned as a prank.

Synonyms

• (foolish undertaking): lost errand, sleaveless errand, wild goose chase
• (prank): snipe hunt

Translations

See also

• key to the midway