腹(はら)を割(わ)る

はらをわる

expression

to speak frankly, to open up

communication

1. to speak frankly, to open up, to be candid

To reveal one's true thoughts and feelings honestly without hiding anything.

腹(はら)を割(わ)って話(はな)そう。

Let's speak frankly.

彼(かれ)とは腹(はら)を割(わ)った仲(なか)だ。

He and I are on candid terms with each other.

上司(じょうし)と腹(はら)を割(わ)って話(はな)し合(あ)い、誤解(ごかい)が解(と)けた。

I had a frank discussion with my boss, and the misunderstanding was resolved.

Etymology

Literally 'to split one's belly,' referring to exposing what is inside oneself (one's true feelings). In Japanese culture, the belly (腹(はら)) is traditionally seen as the seat of emotions and true intentions.

Common patterns

腹(はら)を割(わ)って話(はな)す (to talk frankly)
腹(はら)を割(わ)った付(つ)き合(あ)い (candid relationship)
腹(はら)を割(わ)った仲(なか) (close, honest relationship)

Related words

本音(ほんね)を言(い)う (to speak one's true feelings)
胸襟(きょうきん)を開(ひら)く (to open one's heart, more formal)

Related Words

Related: 本音(ほんね) (true feelings)

general

Added 2026.2.5 11:45 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01

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