Explore Arabic traditional proverbsReviewed 2026-10-28
Meaning: Verified- English translation
The cat's gone, so off you go and play, little mouse.
- Literal wording
The cat has gone away; play, O mouse.
- Meaning and lesson
The saying describes a moment when someone is no longer held back, because the person they fear has left the scene. The cat represents that feared figure, and the mouse represents whoever had stayed cautious while it was near.
Its point is the link between absence and freedom. Once the threat has gone, the way lies open, and the one who had been wary can move about and do as they please.
- When it is used
Suitable for remarking that someone now has a free hand because the person they dread has gone away, leaving them able to act without the pressure that person's presence used to impose.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
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