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to make a clean breast of something
to make a clean breast of something
01
to make a confession about what one has done wrong or lied about, especially to gain relief
Idiom
Informal
What is the origin of the idiom "make a clean breast of something" and when to use it?
The idiom "make a clean breast of something" originated from the imagery of a nursing mother baring her breast to feed her child. It evolved to mean openly and honestly confessing or revealing something, particularly a secret or hidden information. The phrase is only used to emphasize the act of unburdening oneself and sharing the truth without reservation or concealment. In other words, it conveys a sense of vulnerability and a desire to come clean, relieving oneself of guilt.
Examples
After years of guilt, he finally made a clean breast of his involvement in the crime, providing the authorities with all the details.
