At what time is the black cat? - briefly
The phrase "At what time is the black cat?" is a playful riddle or cryptic expression that does not have a literal or straightforward answer. It is often used to encourage creative thinking and can be interpreted in various ways depending on the context.
At what time is the black cat? - in detail
The phrase "At what time is the black cat?" is an idiomatic expression commonly used in Russian to emphasize the unimportance or irrelevance of a particular detail, especially when it is being brought up in a discussion where it does not matter. This expression is often employed in situations where someone is trying to divert attention from the main topic by introducing trivial or insignificant points.
The idiom draws on the contrast between the significance and urgency of time-related questions, which are usually important, and the trivial nature of a black cat's presence or absence. By asking "At what time is the black cat?", one essentially dismisses the relevance of the minor detail being discussed, suggesting that it should not be the focus of attention.
This expression underscores the importance of staying on topic and prioritizing relevant information in conversations and debates. It serves as a reminder to avoid distractions and maintain clarity and purpose in communication.