My grandfather loves watching an old horse opera on Sunday afternoons.
horse opera
idiomA theatrical production, film, or program on radio or television depicting adventures of characters in the American Old West; a western.
The local cinema is hosting a festival dedicated to the classic horse opera, featuring many famous cowboys from the fifties.
While some critics dismiss the genre as simplistic, the horse opera remains a foundational element of American cinematic history and cultural mythology.
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beat a dead horse
To persist or continue far beyond any purpose, interest or reason.
- 02
change horses in midstream
To change one's plan or approach when an effort is already underway or at another inopportune time.
- 03
charley horse
A muscle cramp, usually a strong one, in the thigh, leg, arm, or core.
- 04
close the stable door after the horse has bolted
To attempt to prevent a problem that has already occurred; to design and implement a preventive mechanism that is too late (after the first failure instead of before).
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dark horse
Someone who possesses talents or favorable characteristics that are not known or expected by others.
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drive a coach and horses through
To spoil, break or render ineffective (a rule, plan or agreement).
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enough to choke a horse
An excessive quantity.
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flog a dead horse
To attempt to get more out of something that cannot give more; to attempt to arouse fresh interest in something that is either hopeless or already settled.
Last updated April 17, 2026