English Reference
Idiom idiom

different breed of cat


Something entirely different; a whole other thing or matter.

Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.


SIMPLE

That new machine is a different breed of cat.

CONTEXTUAL

I thought the new project would be easy, but it is a different breed of cat entirely.

COMPLEX

While the previous manager relied on traditional methods, the new director is a different breed of cat, favoring radical innovation over established protocol.


Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    bell the cat

    To undertake a dangerous action in the service of a group.

  2. 02

    born and bred

    Showing characteristics of birth and upbringing, especially in relation to a particular location.

  3. 03

    breed in the bone

    To establish or ingrain firmly within someone's nature.

  4. 04

    built different

    Able to do things which others cannot; extremely talented or unusual.

  5. 05

    cat and dog life

    An unhappy married life marked by arguments and disagreements.

  6. 06

    cat got someone's tongue

    Why is someone not saying anything?

  7. 07

    cat in the meal-tub

    Something concealed; a hidden danger.

  8. 08

    cat piss

    Any beverage of low quality.

Last updated August 10, 2026