What is another word for trial balloon?
Pronunciation: [tɹˈa͡ɪə͡l bəlˈuːn] (IPA) 
A trial balloon is a term used to describe a tactic used in politics or business to gauge public opinion or test a hypothesis. Synonyms for trial balloon include feeler, test, probe, experiment, pilot project, and trial run. A feeler refers to a preliminary investigation or inquiry made to gather information. A test can be used to determine the effectiveness of a product or an idea. A probe involves a detailed investigation to discover information. An experiment is a scientific method of testing a hypothesis. A pilot project is a small-scale test of an idea or process before it is fully implemented and a trial run is a preliminary test of a machine or procedure.
