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Region: General | Usage example: Detectives and hackers played a cat-and-mouse game.

Cat-and-mouse game

Meaning

A constantly shifting contest of cunning.

Usage

Used for tactical interactions.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Based on predator-prey behavior.

Spy novels popularized the metaphor in the 20th century.

Related Idioms

Keep your head in the game

Stay focused and attentive.

Ahead of the game

Better prepared or more advanced than others.

Zero-sum game

A situation where one gain equals another's loss.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.