ProverbChallenge
English origin1598
English origin1598A cat has nine lives, yet care will kill a cat.
Meaning: Excessive worry destroys even the most resilient creature faster than physical danger ever could.
Origin: "Care" meant worry or sorrow. Ben Jonson's Every Man in His Humour (1598) has "care'll kill a cat," and Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing (1599) says "though care killed a cat, thou hast mettle enough in thee to kill care." The saying later became "curiosity killed the cat."
Explore another collection: Compliments & Insults
Compliments and insults from around the world, from the sweet to the savage.
- Sei una persona d'oro You're genuinely wonderful — kind, trustworthy, and precious to have in one's life.
- Che spettacolo! You look absolutely stunning — a spontaneous burst of admiration for someone's appearance.
- Du bist ein Goldstück You're a real gem — priceless, irreplaceable, and deeply appreciated.
Keep exploring