What does “Let the cat out of the bag” mean?
"Let the cat out of the bag" means to reveal a secret or surprise.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I accidentally let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party.
Example
He couldn't resist letting the cat out of the bag and told everyone the big news.
Example
She tried to keep it a secret, but eventually let the cat out of the bag about her new job
Is “Let the cat out of the bag” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Let the cat out of the bag” 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 “Let the cat out of the bag” effectively in context?
You can use "Let the Cat out of the Bag" when someone accidentally reveals a secret or surprise. It emphasizes the idea of unintentionally disclosing information that was meant to be kept hidden. For example, if a friend accidentally reveals the surprise party you've been planning, you might say, 'Thanks for "letting the cat out of the bag"!'
- 1Surprise Party
I accidentally let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party.
- 2News Spreading
He couldn't resist letting the cat out of the bag and told everyone the big news.
- 3Keeping a Secret
She tried to keep it a secret, but eventually let the cat out of the bag about her new job.
Similar phrases to “Let the cat out of the bag”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Let the cat out of the bag” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Let the Cat out of the Bag" is unknown. However, there are a few theories about its origin. One theory suggests that the phrase comes from the practice of dishonest market traders who would substitute a cat for a piglet and sell it in a bag. If the buyer opened the bag before leaving the market, they would discover the deception and 'let the cat out of the bag.' Another theory suggests that the phrase originated from the medieval English town fairs, where people would buy piglets in bags. Dishonest sellers would sometimes replace the piglet with a cat, and if the cat escaped from the bag, the secret would be revealed.
Is “Let the cat out of the bag” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Let the Cat out of the Bag" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where a secret or surprise is accidentally revealed.
What tone does “Let the cat out of the bag” have?
"Let the Cat out of the Bag" conveys a tone of surprise or disappointment. It's often used in a lighthearted or playful manner to express mild frustration or amusement when a secret is unintentionally disclosed.
Can “Let the cat out of the bag” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Let the Cat out of the Bag" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of revealing a secret or surprise. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and family, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She accidentally let the cat out of the bag and spoiled the surprise.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Oops, I let the cat out of the bag!' to acknowledge the accidental revelation of a secret.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- reveal the secret
- expose the truth
- unveil the surprise
- disclose the information
- let slip
Antonyms
- keep a secret
- maintain confidentiality
- guard the surprise
- conceal the information
- stay tight-lipped
