ˌkjʊəriˈɑsɪti kɪld ðə kæt
- Literally:
- A cat died because it was too curious
What does "curiosity killed the cat" mean?
- Being too inquisitive can lead to trouble
- Asking too many questions or being nosy can be dangerous
Examples
- Curiosity killed the cat, so stop asking about my surprise plans!
- I know curiosity killed the cat, but I have to know what happened.
- She was warned that curiosity killed the cat when she started investigating.
Origin
The original 16th-century proverb was 'care killed the cat' (care meaning worry). By the 19th century, 'curiosity' replaced 'care.' The full saying adds 'but satisfaction brought it back.'
How to use it
Used to warn against excessive curiosity or prying. Often said humorously. The rejoinder 'but satisfaction brought it back' defends curiosity.
Similar expressions
Opposites
Related idioms
- kill two birds with one stone
To accomplish two goals with a single action
- let the cat out of the bag
To reveal a secret accidentally
- elephant in the room
An obvious problem or issue that everyone is aware of but no one wants to discuss
- don't count your chickens before they hatch
Don't assume success before it actually happens
- hold your horses
To wait and be patient
- fish out of water
Someone who feels awkward or uncomfortable in a particular situation
Use it in a practice answer
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