informal10K+

UK//kæt ɡɒt jɔːr tʌŋ//US//kæt ɡɑt jɔr tʌŋ//

Meaning of Cat got your tongue

A phrase used to ask why someone is being quiet.

In simple words: Used when someone is silent or not speaking.

Cat got your tongue in a sentence

  • When I asked her a question, she just stared at me. Cat got your tongue?
  • He was unusually quiet during the meeting; I wondered if the cat got his tongue.
  • After his strange comment, I just looked at him. Cat got your tongue?
  • The teacher asked him a question, and he didn't answer. Cat got your tongue?

How to use Cat got your tongue

Typically used in casual conversations or humorous contexts. Avoid in formal settings. Often used when someone is unexpectedly quiet.

Grammar pattern

standalone phrase

Memory hint

Imagine a cat taking away your voice, leaving you speechless.

Related words

Collocations with Cat got your tongue

Synonyms for Cat got your tongue

Common mistakes with Cat got your tongue

  • Using it in formal speech situations.
  • Misunderstanding it as a literal phrase.
  • Using it inappropriately during serious conversations.

Compare Cat got your tongue with Silent, Quiet

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Frequently asked questions about Cat got your tongue

What does Cat got your tongue mean?

Used when someone is silent or not speaking.

What is the definition of Cat got your tongue?

A phrase used to ask why someone is being quiet.

How do you use Cat got your tongue in a sentence?

When I asked her a question, she just stared at me. Cat got your tongue?

Can you give another example of Cat got your tongue?

He was unusually quiet during the meeting; I wondered if the cat got his tongue.

What are synonyms for Cat got your tongue?

Common alternatives include silent, quiet, speechless, taciturn.

What words go with Cat got your tongue?

It commonly pairs with speak up, answer back, share your thoughts.

What are common mistakes when using Cat got your tongue?

Using it in formal speech situations. Misunderstanding it as a literal phrase. Using it inappropriately during serious conversations.

How do you pronounce Cat got your tongue?

US: //kæt ɡɑt jɔr tʌŋ//, UK: //kæt ɡɒt jɔːr tʌŋ//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Cat got your tongue formal or informal?

"Cat got your tongue" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use Cat got your tongue?

Typically used in casual conversations or humorous contexts. Avoid in formal settings. Often used when someone is unexpectedly quiet.