Lift the lid on something
phrase
To expose something (often a problem or scandal) that was previously hidden or concealed.
The investigative journalist lifted the lid on the corruption within the city's administration.

Often appears as...
- lift the lid on corruption
- lift the lid on scandal
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To start talking or asking questions about something sensitive or controversial to learn about it.
The therapist started to lift the lid on Sarah's recurring nightmares.

Often appears as...
- lift the lid on an issue
- lift the lid on a problem
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To expose something (often a problem or scandal) that was previously hidden or concealed.
The investigative journalist lifted the lid on the corruption within the city's administration.

Often appears as...
- lift the lid on corruption
- lift the lid on scandal
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To start talking or asking questions about something sensitive or controversial to learn about it.
The therapist started to lift the lid on Sarah's recurring nightmares.

Often appears as...
- lift the lid on an issue
- lift the lid on a problem
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2

Often Negative
This phrase is mostly used to reveal negative aspects, such as misconduct or crimes.

When the report was published, it lifted the lid on the unethical practices of the company.
Investigative Tone
It implies that someone has done research to uncover the hidden information.

The documentary aimed to lift the lid on the clandestine surveillance operations.
Surprising Revelation
The phrase suggests that the information revealed is surprising or shocking to the public.

Her memoir lifted the lid on the struggles she faced in her early career.
Often Negative
This phrase is mostly used to reveal negative aspects, such as misconduct or crimes.

When the report was published, it lifted the lid on the unethical practices of the company.
Investigative Tone
It implies that someone has done research to uncover the hidden information.

The documentary aimed to lift the lid on the clandestine surveillance operations.
Surprising Revelation
The phrase suggests that the information revealed is surprising or shocking to the public.

Her memoir lifted the lid on the struggles she faced in her early career.
Often Negative
This phrase is mostly used to reveal negative aspects, such as misconduct or crimes.

When the report was published, it lifted the lid on the unethical practices of the company.
Investigative Tone
It implies that someone has done research to uncover the hidden information.

The documentary aimed to lift the lid on the clandestine surveillance operations.
Surprising Revelation
The phrase suggests that the information revealed is surprising or shocking to the public.

Her memoir lifted the lid on the struggles she faced in her early career.
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