[see] which way the cat [jumps]
1
to refrain from making a decision or taking any action until one acquires more data on the situation or how it develops
The idiom "see which way the cat jumps" has its origins in observing the behavior of a cat, which is known for being unpredictable and independent. Figuratively, the phrase is used to describe a situation where one is waiting or observing before making a decision, in order to gauge the actions or intentions of others involved.
- They agreed to suspend a loan they had been on the verge of sending to Peking, and promised to wait for the cat to jump.
- They are waiting for the cat to jump before they could take the final decision.
- When negotiating with the client, we'll see which way the cat jumps before finalizing the contract terms.
- The team will assess market trends and competitors to see which way the cat jumps before launching the new product.
- Instead of making immediate changes to the project, we should see which way the cat jumps after receiving feedback from stakeholders.