Wash dirty linen in public

Meaning

The idiom "wash dirty linen in public" refers to exposing a problem or issue that is best left private or hidden. It suggests that airing dirty laundry, or bringing up unpleasant topics or details, can harm one's reputation or image. The idiom is often used to caution against revealing too much information about oneself or others.

Usage

• "I don't think it's a good idea to wash our dirty linen in public. We should resolve the issue privately."
• "The company has been under fire lately for its shady business practices, but some insiders say they're just trying to wash their dirty linen in public to distract from their problems."
• "I don't think it's appropriate to wash our dirty linen in public like that. We should let our issues come out in private."
• "The politician has been accused of corruption, but he's denying all charges and trying to wash his dirty linen in public by attacking the accusers instead."
• "I think we should avoid washing our dirty linen in public as much as possible. It's better to deal with problems privately before they escalate."

Roots and History

The origin of the idiom is unclear, but it has been used in English since at least the 17th century. One theory suggests that the phrase comes from the practice of washing clothes by hand, with dirty clothes requiring more forceful scrubbing than clean ones. This could be seen as a metaphor for airing one's problems or secrets, which may require more effort and scrutiny. Another theory proposes that the idiom originated in medieval Europe, when people would spread their clothing out to dry on public lines. If someone had dirty clothes hanging next to them, it could be seen as an embarrassment and a sign of shame or dishonesty. By washing their dirty linen in public, they were effectively advertising their problems for all to see. Over time, the idiom has taken on a broader meaning beyond simply referring to washing clothes. It now encompasses any situation where someone is forced to reveal unwanted information or face negative consequences for keeping their problems hidden.

Synonyms in English

• Laid bare
• Exposed
• Outed
• Revealed
• Uncovered

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: "Tirar a la luz" (to bring to light)
• French: "Rendre public" (to make public)
• German: "Öffentlich machen" (to make public)
• Italian: "Farsi vedere" (to show)
• Dutch: "De kant opkijken" (to take a side)

Similar Idioms

• walk out on

• waiting time

• way forward