# open the kimono

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/open-the-kimono
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To reveal confidential information, especially details of one's business operations.

## Examples

- The company had to open the kimono to show their financial records.
- You must open the kimono if you want us to trust your business plan.
- We never open the kimono to our competitors during a trade show.
- Before the merger, the CEO agreed to open the kimono and share all internal data with the potential buyers.
- The startup founders decided to open the kimono and show the investors their secret software code to prove the product works.
- After months of secrecy, the department head finally opened the kimono regarding the true costs of the failed project.
- During the rigorous audit, the management team was forced to open the kimono, revealing the intricate and previously hidden details of their supply chain operations.

## Origin

Unknown. Possibly a calque of Japanese 胸襟を開く (“to share one's feelings”, literally “to open one's collar”) or Japanese 裃を脱ぐ (“to be frank”, literally “to take off one's haori and hakama (two garments worn over a kimono)”). (disputed)

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.