Which phraseological units are not antonyms: a cat cried, like a cat and dog, hold your tongue? - briefly
The phraseological units "a cat cried", "like a cat and dog", and "hold your tongue" are not considered antonyms. These expressions do not convey opposite meanings; rather, they each have distinct and unique implications in English idiomatic language.
Which phraseological units are not antonyms: a cat cried, like a cat and dog, hold your tongue? - in detail
Phraseological units, also known as idioms or set phrases, are fixed expressions that convey meaning beyond their literal interpretation. Understanding whether these units are antonyms involves analyzing their meanings and usages. The phrases "a cat cried," "like a cat and dog," and "hold your tongue" each have distinct meanings that do not position them as antonyms.
The phrase "a cat cried" is not a commonly recognized idiom in standard English. However, if we consider a similar phrase like "the cat cried," it typically means that someone, often unexpectedly or in a situation where they are not usually vocal, has expressed strong emotions or complaints. This idiom suggests a situation where someone has broken their usual silence to voice their feelings, often in a surprising manner.
The phrase "like a cat and dog" is a well-known idiom that describes a situation where two people or groups are fighting or arguing constantly. It signifies ongoing conflict and animosity between the parties involved. The imagery of cats and dogs fighting is used to emphasize the intensity and frequency of the disputes.
The phrase "hold your tongue" is an idiom that means to refrain from speaking, especially when one is angry or wants to express disagreement. It implies self-restraint and the suppression of one's thoughts or opinions to avoid conflict or to maintain decorum. This phrase is often used to advise someone to be silent and avoid saying something that might be hurtful or inappropriate.
While these phrases each convey distinct meanings related to communication and behavior, they are not antonyms. "A cat cried" and "hold your tongue" both relate to speech but in opposite ways: the former implies speaking out, while the latter implies silence. However, "like a cat and dog" describes a state of conflict rather than a state of communication. Therefore, none of these phrases are direct opposites of each other. Each phrase serves a unique purpose in describing different aspects of human interaction and behavior.