start a hare (running)

To raise, introduce, or prompt discussion about a certain topic. The MP was quick to state that he didn't want to start a hare running about the controversial issue ahead of the snap election. He started a hare that got the whole country talking about the implications of the new tax on working-class citizens.

start a hare

BRITISH, OLD-FASHIONED

If you start a hare, you introduce a new idea or topic which other people become interested in. Some work needs to be done before the connection between aluminium and heart disease is proved, but Mr Birchall has started a hare that many researchers will be watching. Note: To `start' a hare means to disturb it and cause it to leave its hiding place, so that the hounds start chasing it.

start a hare

raise a topic of conversation. British , dated

The rapid twisting and running of a hunted hare is here used as a metaphor for the pursuit of a topic in an animated conversation, especially one in which the participants hold strong views.