hunter trials: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Specialized / Formal
Quick answer
What does “hunter trials” mean?
A competitive event, often equestrian, where horses and riders are tested over a course of natural or artificial obstacles to assess skill and suitability for hunting.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A competitive event, often equestrian, where horses and riders are tested over a course of natural or artificial obstacles to assess skill and suitability for hunting.
In a broader metaphorical sense, can refer to any competitive test or evaluation designed to assess skill, suitability, or readiness for a particular demanding role or activity.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Common and well-understood in the UK, particularly in countryside and equestrian communities. In the US, the activity exists but is more likely referred to by a different name, such as a 'hunter pace', 'field hunter trial', or as part of a broader 'horse trial' or 'combined training' event. The specific compound 'hunter trials' is very rare in American English.
Connotations
In the UK, connotations are of tradition, countryside skill, and the social world of fox hunting (though the event itself does not involve live quarry). In the US, if used, it may sound like a British import or a specific, niche equestrian discipline.
Frequency
High frequency in relevant UK contexts (e.g., local newspapers in rural areas, equestrian magazines). Very low to zero frequency in general American English.
Grammar
How to Use “hunter trials” in a Sentence
to enter (a) hunter trialsto compete in (the) hunter trialsto hold/organise (annual) hunter trials(The) hunter trials were held at...(The) hunter trials tested the horses' ability to...Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “hunter trials” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- They will be hunter-trialling their new horse next weekend.
- She has hunter-trialed all over the county.
American English
- She plans to hunter pace her gelding in the fall. (Equivalent concept)
adjective
British English
- The hunter-trial course was very demanding.
- He's a hunter-trial judge.
American English
- The field hunter course was well designed. (Equivalent concept)
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Rare, possibly in historical or cultural studies of rural British life.
Everyday
Used in everyday conversation only within specific UK communities (equestrian, rural). Unfamiliar to most urban speakers.
Technical
Specific technical term within the equestrian and hunting worlds, with defined rules and classes.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “hunter trials”
Strong
Neutral
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “hunter trials”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “hunter trials”
- Using 'hunter trial' as a singular for the event (usually plural: 'trials').
- Confusing it with a 'fox hunt'.
- Assuming it is a common term in all English-speaking countries.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, modern hunter trials do not involve the pursuit of live quarry. They are purely sporting competitions that simulate the conditions and obstacles a horse and rider might encounter while hunting across country.
Hunter trials are held over natural or rustic terrain (fields, woods) and feature solid, natural-looking obstacles like hedges, logs, and ditches, emphasising steadiness and suitability for hunting. Showjumping occurs in an arena with brightly coloured, easily knocked-down fences, prioritising precision and power.
Yes, most hunter trials events offer different classes or 'heats' for various levels, including novice or beginner classes with smaller, less daunting fences.
Only in a deliberate, metaphorical sense to describe any rigorous, obstacle-filled test of ability (e.g., 'The recruitment process was a real hunter trial'). This metaphorical use is relatively rare.
A competitive event, often equestrian, where horses and riders are tested over a course of natural or artificial obstacles to assess skill and suitability for hunting.
Hunter trials is usually specialized / formal in register.
Hunter trials: in British English it is pronounced /ˈhʌntə ˌtraɪəlz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈhʌntɚ ˌtraɪəlz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None directly from this compound. Metaphorical: 'The interview was a real hunter trial of my technical knowledge.'”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a HUNTER (a horse and rider) going through a series of TRIALS (tests) over fences and streams.
Conceptual Metaphor
LIFE IS A HUNTER TRIAL (a series of challenging obstacles one must navigate skillfully).
Practice
Quiz
In which variety of English is the term 'hunter trials' most commonly used and understood?