Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
when-the-cats-away-the-mice-will-play
proverb
/wɛn ðə kæts əˈweɪ ðə maɪs wɪl pleɪ/
Definition
This phrase means that people often take advantage of an absence of authority or supervision to engage in behavior they wouldn’t normally do.
Examples
- When the manager is out for the day, the staff tends to slack off; when the cat’s away, the mice will play.
- The kids were much louder during the sleepover; they always behave like when the cat’s away, the mice will play.
- The students brought snacks and played games during the teacher’s absence; it’s true that when the cat’s away, the mice will play.
Meaning
It suggests that individuals may act freely or mischievously when their usual restraints or controls are not present.
Synonyms
- absence makes the heart grow fonder
- freedom leads to mischief
- without supervision, chaos ensues
