Look what the cat dragged in: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Look what the cat dragged in” mean?

"Look what the cat dragged in" means someone or something that is unexpected or unwelcome.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I can't believe you invited him to the party, he's definitely what the cat dragged in.

Example

When I opened the door, I was shocked to see what the cat dragged in - a stray dog!

Example

She showed up at the meeting unannounced and everyone looked at her like what the cat dragged in

Is “Look what the cat dragged in” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Look what the cat dragged in” 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 “Look what the cat dragged in” effectively in context?

You can use "Look what the cat dragged in" to express surprise or disapproval when someone or something unexpected or unwelcome appears. It is often used in a humorous or sarcastic tone. For example, if a friend shows up to a party uninvited, you might say, 'Well, look what the cat dragged in!'

• 1. Social Gatherings

  I can't believe you invited him to the party, he's definitely what the cat dragged in.

• 2. Unexpected Encounters

  When I opened the door, I was shocked to see what the cat dragged in - a stray dog!

• 3. Surprise Visits

  She showed up at the meeting unannounced and everyone looked at her like what the cat dragged in.

Similar phrases to “Look what the cat dragged in”:

Out of the blue

Something that happens unexpectedly or without warning

Example

He called me out of the blue after years of no contact.

Fish out of water

Someone who is uncomfortable or out of place in a particular situation

Example

As a city girl, she felt like a fish out of water in the countryside.

Black sheep

A person who is considered different or disreputable within a group or family

Example

He was always the black sheep of the family, going against their traditional values.

Odd one out

Someone or something that is different or doesn't fit in with the rest

Example

In a group of extroverts, she was the odd one out, preferring solitude.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Look what the cat dragged in” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Look what the cat dragged in" is unknown.

Is “Look what the cat dragged in” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Look what the cat dragged in" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used in informal settings among friends, family, and colleagues.

What tone does “Look what the cat dragged in” have?

"Look what the cat dragged in" conveys a tone of surprise, disapproval, or humor. It is typically used to express astonishment or annoyance at the unexpected or unwelcome appearance of someone or something.

Can “Look what the cat dragged in” be used in informal and formal settings?

While "Look what the cat dragged in" is more commonly used in informal conversations, it can also be used in some formal situations to add a touch of humor or informality. However, it is important to consider the context and the relationship with the person you are speaking to.

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, 'When she walked into the room, everyone looked at her like "look what the cat dragged in".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Well, "look what the cat dragged in"!' to express surprise.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• surprise surprise
• well, well, well
• fancy seeing you here
• what a surprise
• who would've thought

Antonyms

• expected guest
• welcome sight
• pleasant surprise
• long-awaited arrival