open the floodgates

"open the floodgates"的定义和意义

to open the floodgates

短语

to cause strong and overwhelming emotional reactions, often leading to a burst of tears, feelings, or memories

to [open] the floodgates definition and meaning

Idiom

Informal

What is the origin of the idiom "open the floodgates" and when to use it?

The idiom "open the floodgates" originated from the literal act of opening the gates of a dam or reservoir to release a large volume of water rapidly. It can be used to show the release of long-restrained emotions, such as when someone finally expresses their long-suppressed feelings, leading to an outpouring of emotions.

Example

After years of keeping her pain bottled up, she finally confided in a trusted friend, and the floodgates of her sorrow burst open.

The heartfelt eulogy at the funeral opened the floodgates of emotion, leaving not a dry eye in the room.

(of an action or decision) to allow for many possibilities, particularly those that were previously unavailable

What is the origin of the idiom "open the floodgates" and when to use it?

The idiom "open the floodgates" originated from the literal act of opening the gates of a dam or reservoir to release a large volume of water rapidly. In its figurative sense, it is used to imply that an action or decision allows for many possibilities, particularly those that were previously unavailable, much like a sudden, uncontrolled flow of water.

Example

The company's new policy to allow employees to work from home opened the floodgates for a more flexible and diverse workforce.

Lowering the interest rates on loans may open the floodgates for more people to invest in real estate.