IdiomAnimals
English
Englishset the cat among the pigeons
Meaning: To say or do something that causes trouble or uproar.
Example: “Announcing the layoffs at the party set the cat among the pigeons.”
Origin: A cat let loose among pigeons causes chaos. The British phrase is found from the early 20th century, possibly echoing older versions.
Equivalents in other languages
French: Un pavé dans la mare Literally: A paving stone in the pond
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- a den of thieves A place full of dishonest people.
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