tilt at windmills
Derived from the novel "Don Quixote" by Miguel de Cervantes, the phrase "tilt at windmills" refers to engaging in futile or misguided efforts.
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Definition
C1General
(figurative, literary)To engage in a futile or imaginary conflict.
Example
- He spent years tilting at windmills, trying to reform a system that was resistant to change.
C1General
(figurative, literary)To pursue a hopeless or unrealistic goal.
Example
- Trying to convince the board to adopt his radical proposal was like tilting at windmills.