catch a lion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "catch a lion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing bravery, challenges, or metaphorical situations where one is taking on a significant risk or challenge. Example: "In order to succeed in this competitive market, we need to catch a lion and take bold steps that others are afraid to take."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The Ritz Carltons: they catch a lion.

The New Yorker

The New Yorker, February 5 , 1927P. 24 The Ritz Carltons: they catch a lion.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

An invisible enemy is impossible to catch – but a lion that can be seen can be shot.

Unicef

There are more than 500 National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in India; you can see things such as the last few remaining Asiatic lions, catch a glimpse of a snow leopard, watch herds of Indian elephants roaming in the grasslands, spot the one-horned rhino or even see a red panda as well as so much more.

WikiHow

The Lions might catch a break if Harvard's starting quarterback, Neil Rose, has to sit out another game with a shoulder injury; he will have a CT scan today.

The New York Times - Sports

The lion will catch an antelope when it gets big enough," Gruener says.

BBC

The Detroit Lions caught a big break in that regard this week when the NFL reduced the one-game suspension of All-Pro defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh to a hefty fine.

Los Angeles Times

A lion had just caught a zebra foal and we came across the scene post kill.

The Guardian - Travel

In the season finale against the Lions, Robinson caught a touchdown pass and leapt into the stands at Lambeau Field.

The New York Times - Sports

In the fourth quarter of the Bills' October 5 matchup against the Detroit Lions, Gragg caught a touchdown pass that, with an added two-point conversion, tied the game; Buffalo won the contest, 17 14, and moved to a 3 2 record.

Wikipedia

The general bellowed, "Throw them to the lions!" They caught a cab to the Iraqi border on New Year's Day and crossed into Iraq on foot, jetlagged and woozy.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "catch a lion" metaphorically to describe tackling a significant challenge or pursuing a bold ambition. Ensure the context is appropriate for this somewhat uncommon phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "catch a lion" in literal contexts unless you are specifically referring to the act of capturing a lion, which is rarely the intended meaning. The phrase is typically employed metaphorically.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "catch a lion" functions primarily as a metaphorical expression. It suggests undertaking a difficult or dangerous task, aligning with Ludwig AI's assessment of its usability. Examples from Ludwig show its use in both literal and figurative contexts, though the figurative is more common.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Formal & Business

17%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "catch a lion" is grammatically correct but used infrequently, serving as a metaphor for taking on significant challenges. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While examples exist in news, business, and general contexts, it is crucial to use the phrase appropriately, ensuring the metaphorical intent is clear. Alternative phrases like "take on a formidable challenge" or "face a daunting task" may be more suitable depending on the context. Remember to avoid using it literally unless referring to the actual act of capturing a lion. Considering the rarity of this phrase, always ensure your audience will understand its intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take on a formidable challenge

This alternative emphasizes the challenging aspect implied in the original phrase.

overcome a massive obstacle

This alternative concentrates on the act of surpassing a large impediment.

capture an elusive prize

This alternative focuses on the act of obtaining something rare and difficult to get.

face a daunting task

This alternative highlights the intimidating nature of the situation.

grapple with a beast

This alternative focuses on directly confronting a fearsome opponent or challenge.

snare a big fish

This alternative uses a similar metaphor to describe catching something significant.

capture lightning in a bottle

This alternative describes achieving something improbable or unique.

land a major deal

This alternative pertains to achieving a significant business outcome.

bag a trophy

This alternative implies capturing something highly valued or desired.

secure a valuable asset

This alternative emphasizes the acquisition of something beneficial.

FAQs

How can "catch a lion" be used in a sentence?

You can use "catch a lion" metaphorically to describe undertaking a formidable challenge, for example: "In the business world, success often requires you to "catch a lion" and take calculated risks".

What does "catch a lion" mean?

The phrase "catch a lion" generally means to undertake a very difficult and potentially dangerous task, or to achieve something thought to be impossible. It is a metaphor for facing significant challenges.

What can I say instead of "catch a lion"?

Alternatives to "catch a lion" include phrases like "take on a formidable challenge", "capture an elusive prize", or "face a daunting task", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it more common to say "catch a lion" or "hunt a lion"?

"Hunt a lion" is more common and usually refers to the literal act of hunting. "Catch a lion" is less frequent and is typically used metaphorically to mean taking on a significant challenge.