English idioms often use animals to express vivid meanings, and 'cat' is a frequent choice. Here we explore 10 intriguing idioms featuring 'cat,' offering beginners an understanding of their meanings and how to use them in context:
- 1. Curiosity killed the cat
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This idiom warns about the dangers of unnecessary investigation or experimentation. It suggests that being overly curious about things that may not concern you could lead to trouble.
Example:
"Why are you poking around in their business? Remember, curiosity killed the cat."
- 2. Let the cat out of the bag
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To reveal a secret or disclose information unintentionally. This idiom often refers to mistakenly or accidentally revealing a surprise or secret.
Example:
"I can't believe you let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party!"
- 3. Cat's got your tongue
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This phrase is used when someone is quiet and isn't responding as expected, implying that something is stopping them from talking.
Example:
"You've been silent since we left the meeting. What's wrong — cat's got your tongue?"
- 4. There’s more than one way to skin a cat
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This idiom means that there are various methods to achieve the same end. It suggests flexibility and adaptability in problem-solving.
Example:
"Don’t worry if the first solution doesn’t work. There’s more than one way to skin a cat!"
- 5. Look like the cat that got the cream
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Describes someone who looks particularly satisfied or self-satisfied, as if they have achieved a personal victory or pleasant surprise.
Example:
"He came back from the meeting looking like the cat that got the cream. I bet his proposal was accepted."
- 6. The cat’s out of the bag
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This similar formulation means that a secret has already been revealed, mirroring the surprise element from its original form.
Example:
"They were going to announce the merger next month, but the cat's out of the bag now."
- 7. Fight like cats and dogs
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This idiom means to argue or fight fiercely. It often describes a heated disagreement between two people.
Example:
"Ever since they started working together, they’ve been fighting like cats and dogs over the smallest issues!"
- 8. Fat cat
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The idiom refers to wealthy or affluent individuals who are often associated with having power or influence, especially in business or politics.
Example:
"The election campaign was dominated by donations from fat cats wanting to influence policy changes."
- 9. Grin like a Cheshire cat
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This expression describes someone with a broad, fixed smile. It originates from Lewis Carroll’s 'Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.'
Example:
"After winning the award, he was grinning like a Cheshire cat."
- 10. Cool cat
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Refers to someone who is fashionable, attractive, or admired. Often used in informal contexts to discuss social success.
Example:
"Ever since he started his own business, he’s been the cool cat of the town."
These idioms reflect the expressive richness of the English language, helping one communicate more colorfully and engagingly!
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