“Who will bell the cat?”: meaning, origin and examples
What it means
The phrase “Who will bell the cat?” refers to proposing a daring or difficult action, and then questioning who will actually undertake the risky task. It highlights the difference between suggesting a solution and being willing to personally carry it out.
Tone Cautious and slightly skeptical; it often highlights hesitation or reluctance.
Where it comes from
The phrase comes from an old fable, often attributed to Aesop, where a group of mice decide that it would be helpful to hang a bell around a cat’s neck to be warned of its approach. However, none of the mice are willing to do the dangerous job.
Examples
- They all agreed the project needed a leader, but when it came to taking responsibility, no one wanted to bell the cat.
- It’s easy to suggest confronting the boss about the unfair policy, but who will bell the cat?
- ‘Who will bell the cat?’ asked James when the group discussed addressing the issue with management.
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