let the cat out of the bag

You are wondering about the meaning of the phrase let the cat out of the bag, 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 let the cat out of the bag used and what is its meaning?

Meaning of "let the cat out of the bag"

Meaning

The English idiom "let the cat out of the bag" is a phrase used to describe the act of unintentionally revealing a secret or something that was supposed to remain hidden. The phrase implies that the secret or information was kept in a bag, such as a sack or purse, and has been accidentally released. The phrase is also sometimes used to describe a situation where someone deliberately reveals a secret or previously hidden information.

Etymology

The phrase “let the cat out of the bag” is believed to have originated in England during the 18th century. Originally known as “sell the cat in the bag”, it was originally used to describe a scam in which a buyer would purchase a bag that supposedly contained a cat, but in fact, did not. The phrase was later reversed and transformed to represent the act of revealing a secret. Over time, the phrase has been adapted to fit more modern contexts, often being used to describe situations in which someone has let out a secret or hidden information, either accidentally or intentionally.

Usage

The phrase “let the cat out of the bag” is commonly used in both formal and informal English to describe a situation where someone has revealed a secret or hidden information. Generally, the phrase has a negative connotation, as the person revealing the secret has likely broken a trust or caused embarrassment to someone. The phrase is utilized in a variety of contexts, from everyday conversations to professional meetings, to describe a situation where a secret has been revealed.

Example Sentences

• Oh no, she just let the cat out of the bag about her surprise party!
• John tried to keep the secret, but he ended up letting the cat out of the bag.
• I was really hoping to keep this a secret, but now that you've let the cat out of the bag, everyone will know.

The Surprising Origins of Everyday English Idioms

Many English idioms have surprisingly dark origins, often rooted in violence, death, and superstition. For instance, the phrase "raining cats and dogs" is said to have originated in the 17th century, when heavy rain would often cause dead animals to wash up on the streets. Meanwhile, the idiom "rule of thumb" is believed to have originated from a law that allowed men to beat their wives with a stick no thicker than their thumb.