let the cat out of the bag
Meaning
To reveal a secret or surprise unintentionally, or before it is supposed to be known.
Origin
Often linked to old market fraud stories: a piglet might be sold in a sack but replaced with a cat; opening the bag exposed the trick. Now it means exposing hidden information.
Notes
Often implies an accidental slip that reveals something meant to stay secret; can carry mild blame for spoiling a plan. Common in casual to neutral contexts; avoid in very formal writing.
Examples
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I was trying to keep the surprise party secret, but Jake let the cat out of the bag at dinner.
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Donβt let the cat out of the bag about the merger until the official announcement.
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She nearly let the cat out of the bag when she asked him about the ring in front of everyone.
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We agreed not to tell anyone, but someone let the cat out of the bag on social media.
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If you let the cat out of the bag now, the whole plan will fall apart.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed phrasing: βlet the cat out of the bag.β Verb inflects (let/lets/letting), and pronouns can be inserted (βlet it slipβ is a synonym), but the core nouns/articles are typically kept.
Synonyms
- spill the beans
- let it slip
- give the game away
- blow the surprise
Antonyms
- keep it under wraps
- keep it secret
- keep a lid on it
- keep quiet