When the cat is away, the mice will play

Meaning: People often misbehave or take liberties when authority or supervision is absent.

Origin: This proverb has roots in medieval Europe and has been used in English since at least the 16th century. It draws on the natural behavior of mice becoming bold when their predator (the cat) is not present.

Examples:
- The teacher left the classroom, and the students became noisy—when the cat is away, the mice will play.
- Employees relaxed and chatted when the boss was out; when the cat is away, the mice will play.

Vietnamese: Vắng chủ nhà, gà mọc đuôi tôm

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