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Definition |
There is something suspicious happening. |
Examples |
1) When she saw the fake smile on his face, she
smelled a rat. 2) As soon as they heard the suspicious
whispering in the next room, they knew something was up and
smelled a rat. |
Etymology |
The phrase likely stems from the behavior
of rats, which emit a strong, unpleasant odor. |
Synonyms |
suspect foul play, detect deception |
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