A cat has nine lives Meaning in English
expression
Definition
This expression means that cats can escape from dangerous situations and survive things that would normally cause harm, suggesting they are very lucky or resilient. It can also be used to describe people who survive many troubles.
Usage & Nuances
This idiom is used humorously or admiringly for resilience or luck in escaping danger, most often about cats but sometimes about people. In Spanish and Portuguese, the expression often refers to seven lives instead of nine. Used informally; does not literally mean cats have extra lives.
Example Sentences
People say that a cat has nine lives because it can survive falls.
basic
My brother is always in trouble, but he escapes, like a cat has nine lives.
basic
Be careful! You don't have nine lives like a cat.
basic
I can't believe your phone survived that fall—a cat has nine lives, huh?
natural
Every time he gets out of danger, I joke that a cat has nine lives.
natural
She keeps pushing her luck—someone should remind her that not everyone has nine lives!
natural