In every language, there are several phrases known to all speakers whose meaning is sometimes unknown.
For example, “When the cat is away, the mice dance” It is a well-known saying in all Spanish-speaking countries, which may undergo some modifications in some. But what does it mean?
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“When the cat is away, the mice dance” is one of the most used sayings in the world.
What is the meaning of the saying “When the cat is away, the mice dance”
“When the cat is not there, the mice dance” it means that When the authority figure is absent, others relax in fulfilling their obligations.
In every human group there is always a figure who is in charge of maintaining order, commanding respect, making decisions, etc. Their hierarchy allows the group to function, fulfill its obligations, and behave appropriately.
For this reason, the temporary lack of it is sometimes detrimental to the order of the group: people take liberties, forget their duties, change their behavior, assume the role of leader without true notions of what it means, among other things.
In this sense, The saying is generally applied to suggest the consequences of letting down one’s guard or neglecting the order of the group. It is very common to refer it in the absence of the head of the office, or the absence of the father or mother at home.
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“When the cat is away, the mice dance” is one of the most used sayings in the world.
What are the variants of the phrase “When the cat is away, the mice dance”
It is a saying that has presented many variants throughout history and geography. Below are some of the most used:
- When the cat is not there, the mice have a party
- When the cats leave the house, the mice are in a dance.
- When the cat is away, the mice are brave.
- When the cat is not at home, the mice wander around.
- When the cat goes to his devotions, the mice dance.
- When the cat is not home, the mice dance.
- When the cat is not at home, the mice have fun.
- When the cat is not at home, the mice play.
- When the cat is not home, the mice come out.
- When the cat is away, the mice have fun.
- When the cat is missing, the mice dance.
- The cats die, the moments rejoice.
- Relax chickens, the rooster is in harvest.
- Relax, hens, the rooster is dead.
Furthermore, it can be translated into English like “when the cat’s away, the mice will play”, which literally means “when the cat’s away, the mice play”.