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room to swing a cat
01
a small or confined room with very limited space for movement
Humorous
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "room to swing a cat" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "room to swing a cat" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated from the practice of sailors on ships who would use the cat o' nine tails (a type of whip) for punishment. Due to the limited space on board, the expression developed to describe a confined or cramped space where it would be difficult to swing such an instrument fully. Over time, it has evolved to be used figuratively to describe a small or restricted area.
Example
The studio apartment was so small that there was hardly enough room to swing a cat.
The crowded subway during rush hour leaves little room to swing a cat, let alone find a seat.
The tiny conference room provided very little room to swing a cat, making the meeting feel cramped.
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