unmask one's batteries
To begin a decisive action, especially one that reveals one’s true strength or character.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“He finally unmasked his batteries and showed everyone his true skills.”
“She unmasks her batteries when she starts the difficult negotiation.”
“You unmask your batteries once you show your real power.”
“During the final debate, the candidate unmasked his batteries and presented a bold plan that surprised his opponents.”
“The quiet lawyer unmasked her batteries during the cross-examination, proving she was far more aggressive than the witness expected.”
“After pretending to be a beginner, the chess player unmasked his batteries by winning the tournament in ten moves.”
“After months of careful preparation, the general finally unmasked his batteries, launching a decisive offensive that completely changed the course of the war.”
Derived from the military manoeuvre of revealing artillery pieces previously concealed from the enemy's line of sight. The batteries were kept hidden until the precise moment before opening fire, at which point the masking cover was removed to allow the engagement to begin.
- 01
abound in one's own sense
To follow one’s own inclinations and opinions.
- 02
ace up one's sleeve
A surprise advantage of which others are not aware.
- 03
act one's age
To behave in a manner appropriate to one's age.
- 04
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”).
- 05
afraid of one's own shadow
Exceptionally timid.
- 06
air one's dirty laundry in public
To reveal one's sordid secrets to the public.
- 07
air one's dirty linen in public
Synonym of air one's dirty laundry in public.
- 08
albatross around one's neck
A characteristic, possession, associate, or previous deed that hinders one's ability to succeed.
Last updated August 10, 2026