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horseback

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a horseback opinion

An opinion that is not well thought out (with the implication that one has not even taken the time to get off one's horse to give the issue more careful consideration). Now that I've learned more about the cheating scandal and had time to think about it all, I wish I could take back my initial horseback opinions.

See also: horseback, opinion

not know if (one) is afoot or on horseback

To be so totally and utterly confused as to be unaware of one's actions. I've had such a long day that I don't know if I'm afoot or on horseback—I think I need to lie down! I finally got Billy a math tutor because his test grades clearly showed that he didn't know if he was afoot or on horseback in that class.

See also: horseback, if, know, not, on

on horseback

on the back of a horse. Anne rode on horseback across the field. Because they loved horses, the couple decided to marry on horseback.

See also: horseback, on

Set a beggar on horseback, and he'll ride to the devil.

Prov. If a poor person becomes wealthy, he or she will quickly become corrupt. Jill: Since Phil inherited all that money, all he does is go to parties and take drugs. Jane: Yep. Set a beggar on horseback, and he'll ride to the devil.

See also: and, beggar, devil, on, ride, set