The idiom "blow the lid off" means to reveal a secret or expose something that was previously hidden. The pronunciation is /bloʊ ðə lɪd ɒf/, with the stress on the first syllable of each word. "Blow" is pronounced with a long o sound, "lid" has a short i sound, and "off" has a soft a sound. The spelling of this phrase is straightforward and uses common English words, with "blow" meaning to burst or explode and "lid" referring to a covering or top.
"Blow the lid off" is an idiomatic expression that originated from English vernacular meaning to expose or reveal a secret, scandal, or hidden truth that has been kept under wraps. This phrase is often used figuratively, describing a situation where someone or something uncovers and presents previously concealed information, leading to its widespread disclosure or public acknowledgement.
When someone "blows the lid off" a situation or event, they essentially remove the metaphorical cover that has been hiding it, allowing the truth to be discovered or disclosed. This expression implies the act of bringing to light and making widely known something that was previously hidden, often causing great surprise, shock, or controversy.
The phrase "blow the lid off" can be used in various contexts, such as journalism, investigations, scandals, or uncovering corruption. For instance, a journalist may "blow the lid off" a political scandal by revealing damning evidence or a whistleblower may "blow the lid off" illegal activities within a company. It can also be used informally in day-to-day conversations when someone reveals a surprising or shocking truth about a personal situation.
In summary, "blow the lid off" is an idiomatic expression describing the act of exposing or revealing a concealed truth, secret, or scandal, thereby bringing it out into the open for all to see and acknowledge.