The idiom “to let the cat out of the bag” is a popular English expression that means to reveal a secret—often by mistake or before it was meant to be known. It’s widely used in everyday conversation and writing.
To Let the Cat Out of the Bag – Idiom Meaning
The idiom means:
To accidentally or unintentionally reveal a secret
To expose hidden plans or confidential information
To spoil a surprise by saying something too early
Origin of the Idiom
This phrase dates back to old marketplaces, where dishonest traders might sell a bag claiming it held a piglet—but it actually contained a cat. Once the bag was opened, the secret (and the scam) was exposed—hence, “letting the cat out of the bag.”
Examples of Usage
I wasn’t supposed to say anything about the promotion—but I let the cat out of the bag.
He accidentally let the cat out of the bag about the surprise wedding.
Try not to let the cat out of the bag before the announcement is official.
When she saw the decorations, she knew someone had let the cat out of the bag.
Synonyms for This Idiom
Spill the beans
Blow the secret
Let it slip
Reveal the surprise
Give the game away
Conclusion
The keyword “To Let the Cat Out of the Bag Idiom Meaning” helps learners understand one of the most expressive ways to describe accidentally revealing a secret. It’s a colorful phrase that adds life and clarity to both speech and writing.