What does “Cock in the henhouse” mean?
"Cock in the henhouse" means there is an unwelcome or inappropriate person in a particular situation.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He's always causing trouble at work, like a cock in the henhouse.
Example
She felt like a cock in the henhouse at the all-male conference.
Example
The new employee's behavior was like a cock in the henhouse during the team meeting
Is “Cock in the henhouse” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Cock in the henhouse” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Cock in the henhouse” effectively in context?
You can use "Cock in the Henhouse" to describe someone who is unwelcome or inappropriate in a particular situation. It implies that the person stands out or disrupts the harmony of the group. For example, if someone is causing trouble at work and creating a negative atmosphere, you might say, 'He's always causing trouble at work, like a cock in the henhouse.'
- 1Work
He's always causing trouble at work, like a cock in the henhouse.
- 2Social Gathering
She felt like a cock in the henhouse at the all-male conference.
- 3Meeting
The new employee's behavior was like a cock in the henhouse during the team meeting.
Similar phrases to “Cock in the henhouse”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Cock in the henhouse” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Cock in the Henhouse" is unknown.
Is “Cock in the henhouse” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "Cock in the Henhouse" is not as common as some other idioms, but it is still used in everyday conversation. It may be more commonly used in informal settings or among friends and colleagues.
What tone does “Cock in the henhouse” have?
"Cock in the Henhouse" conveys a tone of disapproval or annoyance. It is often used to express frustration or irritation towards someone who is disrupting a situation or causing problems.
Can “Cock in the henhouse” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Cock in the Henhouse" is more informal in nature and may not be suitable for formal or professional settings. It is best used in casual conversations with friends, family, or colleagues.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He's always causing trouble at work, like a cock in the henhouse.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'What a cock in the henhouse!' to express frustration or annoyance.
