mousetrap


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build a better mousetrap

To invent something that improves upon an existing object or concept. You don't have to try so hard to build a better mousetrap—just design what interests you and see what happens.
See also: better, build, mousetrap

a better mousetrap

Something that improves upon an existing object or concept. Typically used in the phrase "build a better mousetrap." You don't have to try so hard to build a better mousetrap—just design what interests you and see what happens.
See also: better, mousetrap

build a better mousetrap

to develop or invent something superior to a device that is widely used. (From the old saying, "If you build a better mousetrap, the world will beat a path to your door.") Harry thought he could build a better mousetrap, but everything he "invented" had already been thought of.
See also: better, build, mousetrap

a better mousetrap

an improved version of a well-known article.
This expression comes from an observation attributed to Ralph Waldo Emerson in 1889 , though also claimed by Elbert Hubbard : ‘If a man write a better book, preach a better sermon, or make a better mousetrap than his neighbour, tho' he build his house in the woods, the world will make a beaten path to his door’.
See also: better, mousetrap
References in periodicals archive ?
She died in 1976, having seen The Mousetrap performed continuously for 24 years.
Long-serving Mousetrap still pulling them in; Theatre
I went to The Mousetrap several times with her in varying company - family parties, girl-friends, and the Eton cricket team when I was captain in 1962.
Springing the Trap; Classic Agatha Christie drama in tour date
The inventor has also developed a working prototype of the Multi Rat Mousetrap that has been utilized with success.
Innovation Direct[TM] Designated as Official Marketing Representative for Multi-Rat Mousetrap Invention
The letter sent from Bermuda and dated September 1957 holds the message: "Dear Agatha Christie, much as it pains me I really must congratulate you on The Mousetrap breaking the long run record.
Noel Coward's congratulatory telegram to Agatha Christie discovered
I was reminded of Hoback's "mousetrap" line recently when I heard an interview with the head of product development at the Victor company, the dominant mousetrap manufacturer for generations.
Smashburger undaunted by crowded field
In this case, the hinge of the mousetrap is your fulcrum, the marshmallow is the load, and the spoon is the load arm.
Marshmallow launcher
The partners say they plan to develop other derivatives of the transmission systems for use in smaller vehicles, while other partners are encouraged to join the team to see if this new mousetrap is better than the one already on the market.
A new hybrid mousetrap?
With "The Mousetrap," Almereyda's Hamlet takes an important step towards adulthood by stepping out of that private world.
"The Mousetrap" and remembrance in Michael Almereyda's Hamlet
Showing up with just the mousetrap, a volume discount and a nice lunch will likely relegate you to the "when I can get to it" pile.
The to-do list
While some expensive car security systems are being circumvented by criminals, an increasing number of motorists are turning to the Gumede Mousetrap immobiliser as a cheaper, more effective alternative.
Crime prevention: township genius invents a better 'mousetrap'
As regards longevity, are there any records left to be broken when it comes to "The Mousetrap," whose half-century birthday milestone nearly 18 months ago is already receding into memory?
Immortal 'trap'
With the canopy up at engine start and later in the mousetrap position, the side-to-side view was very limited.
View from the scooter's back seat
Collectively, the disparate projects argue that avant-garde design today isn't about building a better mousetrap but questioning the need to trap mice in the first place.
Strangely familiar: design and everyday life: Walker Art Center. (Minneapolis)
During the past 50 years, always with a goal of "building a better mousetrap," Foster has used his innovative spirit to create material handling equipment for customers throughout the world.
Keith honored as business of the year. (Equipment Report)
It is also about understanding how the mousetrap, old or new, creates value.
Getting 'up to speed' on management dashboards
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