The use of idioms has been declining as language adapts to the new generation. Memes, emojis and internet lingo is now dominating the social exchanges of people. As such, the wit and creativity expressed with just words like poems or idioms are now replaced by captioned photos and videos. It’s not to say that creativity is lost in visual media, but it is affecting the art of language and communication. So, to remember the “trending” expressions of the past, here are 7 popular cat idioms that may soon expire.
Cat got your tongue?
If taken literally, this idiom would be a horrible scenario. You use this expression when a person you’re having a conversation with is unable to respond. It’s often used to compel the other to react or talk when they seem to be holding back.
Kit: “What’s the matter, cat got your tongue?”
Curiosity killed the cat
This means that getting too curious will end up badly for you. You can use this phrase as a warning to keep a person, especially the nosey ones, from asking too many questions.
Cathy: “I wonder why our neighbor keeps leaving his house in the middle of the night.”
Doug: “Curiosity killed the cat.”
Let the cat out of the bag
A cat idiom synonymous to “spoilers.” You use this phrase to tell that someone, maybe yourself, has revealed a secret or surprise by accident or not.
Kit: “When are you planning to surprise her?”
Bud: “Cat’s out of the bag. She saw my planner.”
Like a cat on a hot tin roof
A phrase describing a person who’s getting very fidgety due to extreme nervousness or agitation. The older version of this idiom is: Like a cat on hot bricks.
Kate: “Why’s he like a cat on a hot tin roof?”
Pop: “He’s waiting for his online test results.”
Look what the cat dragged in
People use this expression to playfully tease somebody. You can use this to announce when someone arrives and put that person in the limelight while he or she looks a little unkempt.
Kath: “Hey, look what the cat’s dragged in!”
Tom: “Yeah, yeah, strong wind wanted to style my hair.”
It’s raining cats and dogs
This means that it’s raining heavily. The origin or how this cat idiom came to be can’t be identified.
Kit: “I don’t think I’ll make it to the party. It’s raining cats and dogs!”
While the cat’s away, the mice will play
For the seventh cat idiom, this pertains to how people usually do what they want if left unsupervised. Most people do what they enjoy when there are no eyes watching them, especially those with authorities.
Bud: “Everyone just talked and played because their teacher wasn’t around.”
Doug: “Well, while the cat’s away the mice will play.”
There are more cat idioms you can use to add more color and ‘cat’ in your conversation. These are only 7 of the most commonly used cat idioms that may soon expire.
