# hold with the hare and run with the hounds

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/hold-with-the-hare-and-run-with-the-hounds
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To oppose an action or behavior and yet engage in the same action or behavior; to be a hypocrite.

## Examples

- You cannot hold with the hare and run with the hounds.
- He criticizes his boss for being unfair, yet he treats his own employees the same way; he is holding with the hare and running with the hounds.
- The politician publicly condemned the corrupt practices of the industry while privately accepting their donations, effectively holding with the hare and running with the hounds.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.