change horses in midstream

== English == === Alternative forms === swap horses in midstream change horses in mid-stream === Etymology === Popularized by Abraham Lincoln. === Pronunciation === === Verb === change horses in midstream (third-person singular simple present changes horses in midstream, present participle changing horses in midstream, simple past and past participle changed horses in midstream) (idiomatic) To change one's plan or approach when an effort is already underway or at another inopportune time. ==== Usage notes ==== Often used as a caution: "don't change horses in midstream". ==== Translations ==== === Further reading === Gary Martin (1997–), “Change horses in midstream”, in The Phrase Finder.