What does “Velvet paws hide sharp claws.” mean?
"Velvet paws hide sharp claws" means that someone may appear gentle or harmless, but can still be dangerous or assertive.
What context can I use the in?
Example
She may seem sweet and innocent, but velvet paws hide sharp claws. Don't underestimate her.
Example
Don't be fooled by his charming smile. Velvet paws hide sharp claws. He can be quite aggressive when he wants to be.
Example
The cat looked adorable, but when I tried to pet it, it scratched me. Velvet paws hide sharp claws
Is “Velvet paws hide sharp claws.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Velvet paws hide sharp claws.” 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 “Velvet paws hide sharp claws.” effectively in context?
You can use "Velvet paws hide sharp claws" to warn someone about underestimating others based on their appearance. It emphasizes the idea that someone may seem gentle or harmless, but can still be dangerous or assertive. For example, if a friend is being too trusting of a new acquaintance, you might say, 'Remember, velvet paws hide sharp claws. Be cautious and don't let appearances deceive you.'
- 1Friendship
She may seem sweet and innocent, but velvet paws hide sharp claws. Don't underestimate her.
- 2Dealing with people
Don't be fooled by his charming smile. Velvet paws hide sharp claws. He can be quite aggressive when he wants to be.
- 3Animal behavior
The cat looked adorable, but when I tried to pet it, it scratched me. Velvet paws hide sharp claws.
Similar phrases to “Velvet paws hide sharp claws.”:
This phrase means that things or people may not be what they seem at first glance.
Example
He seemed trustworthy, but appearances can be deceiving. He turned out to be a fraud.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Velvet paws hide sharp claws.” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Velvet paws hide sharp claws" is unknown.
Is “Velvet paws hide sharp claws.” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "Velvet paws hide sharp claws" is not as common in everyday conversation compared to other proverbs. However, it is still used occasionally, especially in situations where someone wants to caution against making assumptions based on appearances.
What tone does “Velvet paws hide sharp claws.” have?
"Velvet paws hide sharp claws" conveys a tone of warning and caution. It suggests that one should not judge solely based on outward appearances and should be wary of hidden intentions or capabilities.
Can “Velvet paws hide sharp claws.” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "velvet paws hide sharp claws" is more commonly used in informal settings. It is often used in casual conversations among friends or family members. However, it can also be used in more formal situations to emphasize the importance of not making assumptions based on appearances.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
The phrase is typically used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Don't be fooled by her innocent look, velvet paws hide sharp claws.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the proverb even if used alone, like saying 'Velvet paws hide sharp claws!' to imply the need for caution.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- appearances can be misleading
- hidden depths
- beware of false appearances
- don't be fooled by looks
- don't underestimate the quiet ones
Antonyms
- what you see is what you get
- transparent intentions
- wearing one's heart on one's sleeve
- open and honest
- no hidden agenda
