Proverb / Kotowaza
腹を割る
To speak frankly and reveal one's true intentions without hiding anything.
to cut open the belly
Quick Answer
To speak frankly and reveal one's true intentions without hiding anything.
- Literal Image
- to cut open the belly
- How to Use It
- Used when people decide to stop being formal or guarded and instead speak with complete honesty, especially in deep personal discussions or important negotiations.
Meaning
To be completely open and honest, showing what is truly in one's heart. It implies removing any barriers or secrets to have a sincere and direct conversation where nothing is held back.
Literal Image
to cut open the belly
How to Use It
Used when people decide to stop being formal or guarded and instead speak with complete honesty, especially in deep personal discussions or important negotiations.
Tone
Direct, sincere, and serious. It implies a significant step toward mutual understanding or resolution.
Examples
一度、お互いに腹を割って話し合う必要がある。
We need to have an open and honest talk with each other once.
彼は腹を割って相談できる、数少ない親友だ。
He is one of the few close friends I can talk to with complete honesty.
腹を割った交渉の結果、ようやく合意に達した。
As a result of open and honest negotiations, we finally reached an agreement.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
The kanji and vocabulary are basic, but the idiomatic meaning relating the belly to honesty is a core metaphor that learners need to understand.
腹
はら / hara
belly; heart; true intentions
割る
わる / waru
to divide; to split; to break open
Usage Profile
Usage note: This expression implies a high degree of vulnerability and trust; it is not for light or casual small talk.
Misread Risk
Do not interpret this literally as physical harm; it refers specifically to psychological and emotional transparency.
Search As
Related Proverbs
Origin
The word 'hara' (belly) has been considered the seat of one's true intentions and emotions since ancient times. 'Cutting open the belly' to show its contents signifies speaking truthfully and without any deception, much like showing what is physically inside.
Index
Topics, Situations, and Tags
Topics
Situations
Tags
Source Note
Where did this entry get its data from? The reference links are listed below. To understand how to read this section, see Data Sources.