What does “Like a cat on hot bricks” mean?
"Like a cat on hot bricks" means being extremely nervous or anxious.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He was pacing back and forth, like a cat on hot bricks.
Example
She couldn't sit still, like a cat on hot bricks, waiting for the test results.
Example
The team was like a cat on hot bricks before the championship game
Is “Like a cat on hot bricks” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Like a cat on hot bricks” 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 “Like a cat on hot bricks” effectively in context?
You can use "Like a cat on hot bricks" to describe someone who is restless, anxious, and unable to keep still or calm. It emphasizes a sense of unease and nervousness. For example, if a friend is fidgeting and constantly moving around before a big presentation, you might say, 'You're like a cat on hot bricks! Try to take some deep breaths and relax.'
- 1Nervousness
She couldn't sit still during the meeting, constantly shifting in her seat like a cat on hot bricks.
- 2Anticipation
He paced back and forth in the waiting room, like a cat on hot bricks, unable to relax.
- 3Anxiety
The anticipation of the exam had her feeling like a cat on hot bricks, unable to focus on anything else.
Similar phrases to “Like a cat on hot bricks”:
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Where does the phrase “Like a cat on hot bricks” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Like a cat on hot bricks" is unknown.
Is “Like a cat on hot bricks” common in everyday conversation?
"Like a cat on hot bricks" is not a very common proverb in everyday conversation. It may be more commonly used in literature or in specific contexts where restlessness or anxiety is being described.
What tone does “Like a cat on hot bricks” have?
"Like a cat on hot bricks" conveys a tone of unease and restlessness. It describes a state of heightened nervousness or anxiety.
Can “Like a cat on hot bricks” be used in informal and formal settings?
"Like a cat on hot bricks" is a relatively informal proverb. It can be used in casual conversations with friends, family, or colleagues, but may not be as commonly used in formal settings.
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, 'She couldn't sit still during the meeting, constantly shifting in her seat like "a cat on hot bricks".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the proverb even if used alone, like saying 'Feeling "like a cat on hot bricks"?' to imply restlessness or anxiety.
