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red herring

[red her-ing] / ˈrɛd ˈhɛr ɪŋ /


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.

“The childish scribbling handwriting is also a red herring for some of the more serious and sinister themes in the book, “ says Cash.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 16, 2026

But in the case of Iran, the whole exercise is a bit of a red herring.

From Slate • Mar. 11, 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 Prime Minister Keir Starmer vehemently denied the accusations in parliament as "a red herring" and "completely scurrilous".

From Barron's • Dec. 3, 2025

The guidebook full of clues that had led him to Switzerland had been nothing but a red herring.

From "The Long-Lost Home" by Maryrose Wood