The cat's out of the bag Meaning in English
expression
Definition
This expression means a secret has been revealed or something that was supposed to be hidden is now known to others.
Usage & Nuances
This is an informal idiom often used after a secret has become public, usually by accident. Common in both spoken and written English. Don't use it in formal writing. Can be used in past or present: 'the cat's out of the bag' or 'the cat was let out of the bag.'
Example Sentences
The cat's out of the bag about her surprise party.
basic
Now that the cat's out of the bag, everyone knows the truth.
basic
Who told you? I thought the cat's out of the bag only yesterday.
basic
Well, I guess the cat's out of the bag now—they found out about our plan.
natural
Don't worry, nobody knows yet. The cat's not out of the bag.
natural
As soon as she started laughing, I knew the cat's out of the bag about the surprise.
natural