trot out
Verb (transitive) 1. To produce or present something for inspection, approval, or admiration, often in a routine, predictable, or somewhat showy manner. It implies bringing something forward, especially an idea, excuse, person, or fact, as if it were a prepared item to be displayed. 2. To bring out and show repeatedly or on demand. Often carries a connotation that the thing presented is somewhat tired, overused, or not entirely genuine.
The verb "trot out" is typically used with an object (a noun or noun phrase) representing what is being presented.
- They always trot out the same old arguments at every meeting.
- For the press conference, the company trotted out its most charismatic spokesperson.
- He can always trot out a statistic to support his claim.
- She trotted out her extensive vocabulary to impress the interviewers.
The phrase often has a slightly critical or cynical tone, suggesting the thing presented is: * Unoriginal or Overused: A standard, rehearsed item pulled from a repertoire. * Performed for Effect: Presented more for show or to satisfy a demand than out of genuine necessity. * Superficial: The act of presenting may be more notable than the substance of what is presented.
Example highlighting nuance: * The politician trotted out his family for the photo op. (Implies a calculated, insincere display.)
- Trot: The base verb, meaning to move at a pace faster than a walk. The phrase "trot out" metaphorically suggests bringing something forward at a brisk, ready pace.
- Wheel out: A very similar idiom with the same meaning and often the same slightly negative connotation (e.g., ).
- Produce
- Present
- Bring out
- Display
- Parade
- Drag out (similar, but often with a stronger connotation of reluctance or irrelevance)
- Withhold
- Conceal
- Retract
- Roll out: To officially launch or introduce something new (e.g., a product, plan). While "roll out" can be neutral or positive, "trot out" is more often used for recurring or unimpressive things.
- The tech company rolled out its new software. (Neutral/positive)
- The manager trotted out the same quarterly goals. (Cynical)
- Troop out: To bring people out in a group, often in an orderly fashion. This is more literal and less idiomatic than "trot out."
- bring out and show for inspection and admiration
- His novel trots out a rich heiress
- always able to trot out some new excuse