Let the cat out of the bag

Although the meanings of the words in them do not make any sense when examined one by one, the word groups that are shaped according to the cultural roots of the language and that make sense as a whole are called idioms. Let the cat out of the bag meaning, in what situations is it used?

Meaning of "Let the cat out of the bag"

Meaning

The idiom “let the cat out of the bag” is used to describe the act of revealing a secret or disclosing information that was previously hidden or unknown. By disclosing the secret, the person who is letting the “cat out of the bag” can have some form of influence or control over the situation, as well as the information.

Etymology

The origin of this idiom is unknown, but it is believed to be derived from an old English proverb, which was “sell the cat in the bag.” This proverb was used to describe someone who was trying to deceive someone by selling them an item that was not what they were led to believe. The phrase “let the cat out of the bag” was likely derived from this proverb as it was used to refer to the act of revealing a secret.

Usage

The idiom “let the cat out of the bag” is used in both informal and formal contexts. It can be used in conversations between friends, family members, or coworkers to refer to someone revealing a secret. It can also be used in more formal settings, such as a business meeting or a court of law, to refer to a person revealing confidential or important information.

Example Sentences

• She let the cat out of the bag and told everyone what the surprise was.
• You can't let the cat out of the bag, this is confidential information.
• He tried to keep the truth a secret, but eventually he let the cat out of the bag.
• The attorney had to let the cat out of the bag and reveal the evidence in court.

The Global Spread of English Idioms

As English has become a global language, its idioms have spread far beyond the borders of the UK and USA. For instance, the idiom "beat around the bush" has equivalents in many other languages, such as "tourner autour du pot" in French and "dar vueltas al asunto" in Spanish. Meanwhile, other idioms have been adapted for local contexts, such as the Russian idiom "?? ???? ???????" (ne svoya rubashka), which translates to "not one's own shirt," meaning to be in an uncomfortable or unfamiliar situation.