Which idioms are not synonyms for "cat cried"? - briefly
The idiom "cat cried" typically refers to the sound made by a cat. Other animal-related sounds like "dog barked," "bird chirped," or "cow mooed" are not synonyms for "cat cried."
Which idioms are not synonyms for "cat cried"? - in detail
The idiom "the cat is out of the bag" is often mistakenly considered a synonym for "the cat cried," but this is not accurate. While both idioms involve cats, their meanings are distinct and unrelated.
The phrase "the cat is out of the bag" originates from the 18th century and refers to a situation where a secret has been revealed or made public. The idiom is used when something that was meant to be kept hidden is now known by others, essentially spilling the beans. For example, "I was planning a surprise party for my friend, but now that the cat is out of the bag, she knows about it."
In contrast, "the cat cried" is not a recognized idiom in the English language. This phrase does not carry any specific meaning or connotation, and its use would likely be interpreted literally as describing an actual cat making a sound. If someone were to say "the cat cried," listeners would understand it as a cat vocalizing, perhaps meowing or crying out, rather than conveying any hidden message or secret revelation.
Therefore, while both phrases include the word "cat," they are not synonyms and should not be used interchangeably. Understanding their distinct meanings is crucial for effective communication in English.