change horses (in) midstream

Определение и Значение "[change] horses (in|) midstream"

to change horses (in) midstream

to adopt a different policy in face of a difficult or unexpected problem

What is the origin of the idiom "change one's horse midstream" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "change one's horse midstream" can be traced back to an anecdote attributed to Abraham Lincoln. While the exact historical veracity of the story is debated, it is commonly believed that Lincoln used this metaphor during his presidential campaign in 1864. According to the anecdote, Lincoln was approached by a group of supporters who urged him to switch his vice presidential running mate. In response, Lincoln allegedly used the analogy of not changing horses midstream to convey his reluctance to change course or make significant changes during a critical phase of a process.

Пример

Some political analysts warned that introducing a new healthcare plan halfway through the legislative session would be changing horses in midstream and jeopardize the chances of passing any reform that year.

Just months before the big product launch, the marketing team was hesitant to switch agencies for fear of changing horses in midstream so close to roll-out.

The company decided not to change CEOs midway through their strategic initiative, not wanting to change horses in midstream and disrupt important projects in progress.

During contract negotiations, the union refused the owner's demand to substitute mediators, stating it was ill-advised to change horses midstream while both sides were still at the table.