"The Game is Afoot"

what does "The game is afoot" actually mean?
it might sound like a very stupid question. but i am not from an English-speaking country. so...

Hi holmesian. I've heard or read this many times, but I've never sought out a definition. It has always meant to be that 'the game is just getting interesting'. We do however have a thread that might be able to answer this for you.

http://www.online-literature.com/for...3&page=1&pp=15

I've quoted the question there for you, and asked for an answer on this thread.

I've heard (although never checked myself) that 'The game's afoot' is never actually used by Holmes in any of the books.

Perhaps it comes from Henry V - I think after the speech outside Hartfluer.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Zippy

I've heard (although never checked myself) that 'The game's afoot' is never actually used by Holmes in any of the books.

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i don't think so. :rolleyes:

well missed this :rolleyes:
anyway I belive its a hunting expression the game is a foot is when the game/ quarry/ prey is on the run or you are closing in...
:D

I think it means that "the game has started" refering to a predator/prey scenario.

It is reference to hunting, 'The game is afoot' means 'the chase is on' Holmes did use it once although I am not sure of the exact book.

Afoot can be an adverb or an adjective. It is also used literally & figuratively. It is descended from the Middle English afote & means ON (& Dative of) FOOT.