As an expert sommelier and brewer, I must say that the phrase “the cat that got the cream” and “the canary” have slightly different meanings. While both expressions convey a sense of satisfaction and happiness, they are used in different contexts.
“The cat that got the cream” typically implies a feeling of smugness or self-satisfaction due to achieving something desirable or obtaining an advantage over others. It can be used to describe someone who is proud of their accomplishments or feels superior to others. For example, imagine a chef who has just won a prestigious cooking competition. They might be grinning like the cat that got the cream because they are delighted with their success and feel a sense of superiority over their competitors.
On the other hand, “the canary” refers to someone who looks happy or pleased with themselves, often in a mischievous or sly way. This expression is often used to describe someone who has done something cunning or deceitful and is pleased with the outcome. For instance, imagine a student who successfully tricks their teacher into thinking they have completed their homework when they haven't. They might have a mischievous smile on their face like the canary, knowing they have gotten away with something.
In terms of which expression is more commonly used, “the cat that got the cream” is more prevalent in everyday language. It is often used to describe personal achievements or successes. On the other hand, “the canary” is less common and tends to be used more in specific situations where someone feels pleased with themselves for pulling off something clever or deceitful.
From my personal experiences as a sommelier and brewer, I have encountered numerous instances where individuals have exhibited the characteristics of both the cat that got the cream and the canary. For example, when I won a prestigious brewing competition, I couldn't help but have a wide grin on my face, feeling like the cat that got the cream. However, there have also been times when I have successfully experimented with new flavors and brewing techniques, feeling a mischievous sense of satisfaction like the canary.
Both “the cat that got the cream” and “the canary” express a sense of satisfaction and happiness, but they are used in slightly different contexts. While the former signifies pride and superiority, the latter suggests a mischievous or sly happiness. Both expressions can be used to describe personal achievements or successes, but “the cat that got the cream” is more commonly used in everyday language.