look for a steed with the aid of its picture; follow a rigid formula; trace according to clues
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesverb phrase
to look for a horse according to a picture; to follow instructions mechanically without adaptation
formalOriginally a story about a man who tried to find a fine horse by matching it to a painting, often missing the real thing because he followed the image too rigidly. Now primarily used to criticize inflexible, dogmatic, or unimaginative work methods.
Doing research cannot be done by rigidly following a script; it requires flexible thinking and innovation.
His management style is too dogmatic, completely disregarding the actual situation.
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This kind of rigid, by-the-book approach makes it difficult to cultivate real talent.
verb phrase
to search for something by following clues or leads
neutralThis is a more neutral, extended meaning. It simply means to trace or find something step-by-step based on available information, without the negative connotation of being rigid. The context determines whether it's positive (methodical) or negative (inflexible).
The police followed the clues and finally found the suspect's hiding place.
Readers can use the index at the back of the book to look up related information.
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Relying on the sporadic records in his diary, he retraced his steps and walked the same journey from years past.