Wear your heart on your sleeve

usgb
idiom

Show your feelings or emotions openly, not hiding them.

She always wears her heart on her sleeve, you always know when she's upset.
Visual representation of "wear your heart on your sleeve" - Show your feelings or emotions openly, not hiding them

Often appears as...

  • always wear your heart on your sleeve
  • never wear your heart on your sleeve

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "wear your heart on your sleeve"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Openness

Using this phrase implies you're comfortable sharing feelings, some view it as a sign of honesty.

Illustration for Emotional Openness
In relationships, it's often better to wear your heart on your sleeve.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Vulnerability Risk

It suggests you might be vulnerable because others see how you feel. It's not always safe.

Illustration for Vulnerability Risk
He doesn't wear his heart on his sleeve at work; it's too competitive there.
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Cultural Perception

In some cultures, showing emotions is seen as weakness. Understand the cultural context before using.

Illustration for Cultural Perception
I appreciate your openness, but not everyone is comfortable when you wear your heart on your sleeve here.
Visual representation of the word "Wear your heart on your sleeve"

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