What did the hippopotamus fix, the cat? - briefly
The hippopotamus fixed the clock for the cat.
What did the hippopotamus fix, the cat? - in detail
The phrase "What did the hippopotamus mend, the cat?" is an idiomatic expression that originates from Russian folklore and children's literature. It is often used as a riddle or a humorous way to pose a complex or seemingly unsolvable problem. In this context, the hippopotamus represents a large, powerful entity, while the cat symbolizes something smaller, more agile, and potentially less intimidating. The question implies that even the most formidable issues can be addressed by approaching them with cleverness and finesse, much like how a cat might handle a problem despite its size difference with a hippopotamus. This idiom underscores the importance of strategic thinking and resourcefulness in overcoming challenges, emphasizing that sometimes subtle solutions are more effective than brute force.