get sth off one's chest

/ɡɛt ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ ˈɒf wˈɒnz tʃˈɛst/

/ɡɛt ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ ˈɔf wˈʌnz tʃˈɛst/

[phrase]

to get sth off one's chest

[PHRASE]

to finally talk about what has long been bothering or concerning one

What is the origin of the idiom "make a go of something" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "get something off one's chest" is believed to be rooted in the physical sensation of relief when a heavy weight or burden is lifted. The chest is often associated with the emotions and the heart, and when people have something troubling or distressing on their mind, it can feel like a heavy weight pressing down on them. Sharing their thoughts or concerns with someone else can provide a sense of release or catharsis, akin to the feeling of relief when removing a physical burden from one's chest. It is often used in situations where people want to express their feelings, seek advice, or simply share their thoughts with someone they trust.

Examples

1. Who wants to confess, get something off his chest, and the other, in close up on Arvin's face, where we are with Arvin, where we're with him, we're seeing that he's nervous, and that he's a little anxious.

2. Getting things off your chest can be liberating.

3. Since we're launching on this new awesomeness of videos, I feel like I should get a few things off my chest.

4. But I finally feel comfortable enough to get it off my chest.