Like a cat guarding a milk jug.
Like a cat guarding a milk jug.
Meaning in plain English
The saying puts a cat in charge of guarding a milk jug. It questions an arrangement where a guardian may want what they are meant to protect.
Example
An organiser asks whether a reviewer has an interest that could affect an independent decision.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The tempting object gives a possible conflict a concrete form. A useful application examines whether responsibilities and interests clash rather than assuming someone will betray trust. The supplied gloss repeats the image without verifying animal behavior or a historical origin.
When to use it
Use it to discuss a possible conflict in a protective role.
Keep in mind
A conflict requires assessment and does not by itself prove misconduct.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-05. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Source
- Contributor-provided proverb reference
Supplied reference A; unit 438; PDF page 65
Reuse and collection notes ↗ - Attribution confidence
- traditional · supplied collection
Preserved as printed; independently unverified. - Historical coordinate
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