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Care killed the cat: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Care killed the cat” mean?

"Care killed the cat" means that being overly cautious or worrying too much can cause problems.

What context can I use the in?

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

Example

She's always so worried about everything, but care killed the cat. Sometimes you just have to take risks.

She's always so worried about everything, but care killed the cat. Sometimes you just have to take risks.

Example

He missed out on a lot of opportunities because he was too afraid to try new things. Care killed the cat in his case.

He missed out on a lot of opportunities because he was too afraid to try new things. Care killed the cat in his case.

Example

She's always double-checking everything and never takes any risks. Care killed the cat for her, as she missed out on some great experiences

She's always double-checking everything and never takes any risks. Care killed the cat for her, as she missed out on some great experiences

Is “Care killed the cat” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Care killed the cat” 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 “Care killed the cat” effectively in context?

You can use "Care killed the cat" to caution someone against being overly cautious or worrying too much. It emphasizes the idea that excessive care or worry can lead to negative consequences or even harm. For example, if a friend is hesitant to try something new because they're afraid of failure, you might say, 'Don't be so afraid to take risks. Remember, care killed the cat.'

  • 1Risk-taking

    He was always too careful and missed out on many opportunities. Care killed the cat.

    He was always too careful and missed out on many opportunities. Care killed the cat.

  • 2Worrying

    She was always so worried about everything, but she didn't realize that care killed the cat.

    She was always so worried about everything, but she didn't realize that care killed the cat.

  • 3Boldness

    Sometimes it's better to be bold and take chances rather than constantly worrying. After all, care killed the cat.

    Sometimes it's better to be bold and take chances rather than constantly worrying. After all, care killed the cat.

Similar phrases to “Care killed the cat”:

It's better to be cautious and avoid potential problems than to take unnecessary risks

Example

He decided to wear a helmet while riding his bike, thinking 'better safe than sorry.'

He decided to wear a helmet while riding his bike, thinking 'better safe than sorry.'

Think carefully and consider the consequences before taking action

Example

Before signing the contract, he made sure to look before he leaped.

Before signing the contract, he made sure to look before he leaped.

Fortune favors the bold

Those who take risks are more likely to be successful

Example

She decided to start her own business, believing that fortune favors the bold.

She decided to start her own business, believing that fortune favors the bold.

A stitch in time saves nine

Taking timely action to address a small problem can prevent it from becoming a bigger problem

Example

He fixed the leaky faucet immediately, knowing that a stitch in time saves nine.

He fixed the leaky faucet immediately, knowing that a stitch in time saves nine.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Care killed the cat” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Care killed the cat" is unknown.

Is “Care killed the cat” common in everyday conversation?

The phrase "Care killed the cat" is not as common in everyday conversation compared to other proverbs or idioms. However, it is still recognizable and can be used to convey the idea of being cautious without being overly fearful or worrying too much.

What tone does “Care killed the cat” have?

"Care killed the cat" conveys a tone of caution and advice. It is often used to remind someone that being too careful or worrying excessively can have negative consequences.

Can “Care killed the cat” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "care killed the cat" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that warns against excessive caution or worry. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, 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 is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Don't be so afraid to take risks. Remember, care killed the cat.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Care killed the cat' to imply the idea of being overly cautious or worrying too much.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

  • worrying too much can be harmful
  • excessive caution can lead to negative outcomes
  • being overly careful can have negative consequences
  • too much care can be dangerous
  • overthinking can be detrimental

Antonyms

  • take risks and embrace uncertainty
  • be bold and fearless
  • don't worry, be happy
  • live life to the fullest without fear
  • embrace spontaneity and adventure

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