What is the meaning of the phrase "'if you hear hooves, it's probably horses, not zebras "?
by 
Yanstari
ANSWERS: 7
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Things are usually not as complex as most people think, or, don't think too much into something.
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Probably means your not in Africa.
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Zebra aint shoed(wild animal) as are horses?
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If you hear hoof beats, look for horses, not zebras http://thinkexist.com/quotation/if_you_hear_hoof_beats-look_for_horses-not/158593.html "If you hear hoof beats, think horses—not zebras" is an adage popular in medical schools. This phrase sums up the philosophy that it is generally more productive to look for common rather than exotic causes for disease. However, for the more than 25 million Americans who suffer from an "orphan" disorder (affecting fewer than 200,000 people) just getting a diagnosis can be a heroic undertaking. In a system designed for horses, being a zebra can be lonely, confusing, and frustrating. http://www.pcdfoundation.org/aboutus2/thinkzebras.htm
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Sometimes the best answer is the most obvious one. Don't go looking for the most exotic explanation when the most everyday will do.
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It's a rephrase of Occam's Razor: All other things being equal, the simplest answer is usually the best.
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I have never heard this expression but it made me laugh cos I overthink things all the time!! Points for making me laugh. Happy Friday!!
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