proverb · Words worth keeping
That let the cat out of the bag.
That let the cat out of the bag.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
The phrase lets a cat out of a bag. In its figurative reading, concealed information becomes disclosed or a secret is revealed.
Example
Someone describes a surprise being revealed earlier than planned using the expression.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The released animal makes exposure concrete. A useful application can describe disclosure without inventing why it occurred or whether it was appropriate. The supplied medieval marketplace story is an unverified origin account here and is not promoted to established history.
When to use it
Use it to explain disclosure while keeping origin stories separate.
Keep in mind
No medieval origin or motive for a particular disclosure is verified.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown