fight like cat and dog

You are wondering about the meaning of the phrase fight like cat and dog, maybe you heard it in a TV show, movie or theater play. Although this idiom is not used very often, it enriches your capacity of expression and strengthens communication. In which case is the expression fight like cat and dog used and what is its meaning?

Meaning of "fight like cat and dog"

Meaning

The phrase ‘fight like cat and dog’ usually refers to two people, usually a couple, who argue frequently and heatedly. The saying implies a certain grudging respect between the couple, and is often used to express admiration for their relationship. This phrase can also be used to refer to two people in general who are constantly in disagreement or dispute with one another.

Etymology

The phrase originated in the 1600s, believed to have been derived from two animals found in every English household – cats and dogs. Cats and dogs were often portrayed as arch rivals and this phrase is a reflection of that.

In the early days, it was believed that dogs represented the male and cats represented the female in an argument. In this way, the phrase ‘fighting like cats and dogs’ was an attempt to draw a comparison between a couple arguing and the two species squabbling over territory.

Usage

The phrase ‘fight like cat and dog’ can be used to describe any situation where two people are in constant conflict. This could be a professional rivalry, such as two rival companies in competition, or a personal animosity between two people.

Although the phrase is usually used to describe heated arguments between two people, it can also be used in a lighthearted way to talk about two people who are merely disagreeing.

It is also commonly used to describe relationships where two people are deeply in love and argue frequently. This is usually done in a fond, admiring way to express respect for the strength of their relationship.

Example Sentences

• “John and Jane fight like cat and dog, but they’re still together after thirty years - that’s true love for you!”
• “We’ve been fighting like cat and dog ever since we started our business seven years ago – but that’s what brings out the best in us.”
• “My brother and sister-in-law fight like cat and dog, but they always make up afterwards.”
• “They may fight like cat and dog, but they both know how

The universal role of idioms

"Kill two birds with one stone" is an English idiom that means to accomplish two things with a single action. In French, the similar idiom is "Faire d'une pierre deux coups," which translates to "To kill two birds with one stone." This idiom highlights the efficiency of completing two tasks with one action.