throw a sprat to catch a mackerel
To sacrifice something of little value in the hope of gaining something better.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“I offered a small discount to throw a sprat to catch a mackerel.”
“The company gave away free samples as a way to throw a sprat to catch a mackerel and gain new customers.”
“By investing a modest sum in the initial research phase, the firm hoped to throw a sprat to catch a mackerel, anticipating a massive return on their long-term development project.”
- 01
catch a body
to kill, to murder
- 02
catch a break
To experience the minimal amount of good luck or a favorable outcome.
- 03
catch a case
To be infected with a disease; used with of.
- 04
catch a cold
To contract a cold.
- 05
catch a date
Of a prostitute, to secure a client who is willing to pay for services.
- 06
catch a fade
To get knocked out (struck and rendered unconscious).
- 07
catch a falling knife
To buy a financial instrument whose price is falling rapidly.
- 08
catch a packet
To be fired upon.
Last updated August 10, 2026