He finally showed his true stripes during the argument.
show one's true stripes
idiomTo reveal one's real beliefs, sentiments, or character, especially through one's behavior.
When the project became difficult, the manager showed his true stripes by blaming his team for the failure.
The politician maintained a calm facade for months, but the heated debate forced him to show his true stripes to the voters.
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abound in one's own sense
To follow one’s own inclinations and opinions.
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ace up one's sleeve
A surprise advantage of which others are not aware.
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act one's age
To behave in a manner appropriate to one's age.
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act one's age, not one's shoe size
Synonym of act one's age (“to behave in a mature manner; to avoid being childish”).
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afraid of one's own shadow
Exceptionally timid.
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air one's dirty laundry in public
To reveal one's sordid secrets to the public.
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air one's dirty linen in public
Synonym of air one's dirty laundry in public.
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albatross around one's neck
A characteristic, possession, associate, or previous deed that hinders one's ability to succeed.