mostrar la hilacha
Lemma Details
Translation: to show one's true colors; to reveal one's true nature; to let one's true intentions slip
Part of Speech: idiom
Etymology: This Spanish idiom combines 'mostrar' (to show) with 'hilacha' (thread, loose strand). The image is of a garment revealing its poor quality or true nature when threads begin to show. Metaphorically, it refers to when someone accidentally reveals their true intentions or character, especially negative ones that they were trying to hide.
Commonality: 60%
Guessability: 20%
Register: informal
Example Usage
El político mostró la hilacha cuando habló sobre los impuestos.
The politician showed his true colors when he talked about taxes.
Cuidado con lo que dices cuando estás enojado, podrías mostrar la hilacha.
Be careful what you say when you're angry, you might reveal your true nature.
En la reunión mostró la hilacha y todos se dieron cuenta de sus verdaderas intenciones.
In the meeting, he showed his true colors and everyone realized his real intentions.
Mnemonics
- Think of a fancy suit with loose threads (hilachas) showing - revealing it's not as high-quality as it appears.
- Imagine someone trying to maintain a false image, but like a loose thread, their true nature is showing through.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This idiom is commonly used in Latin American Spanish, particularly in Argentina, Uruguay, and other Southern Cone countries. It's often used in political contexts to describe when politicians accidentally reveal their true agendas or biases.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'mostrar la hilacha' means to accidentally reveal one's true (often negative) nature, 'dar la cara' means to face up to something or take responsibility, usually in a positive sense.
Notes: 'Mostrar la hilacha' has a negative connotation about revealing hidden flaws, while 'dar la cara' has a positive connotation about taking responsibility.
Mnemonic: 'Hilacha' (thread) is something small that reveals a bigger problem, while 'cara' (face) is about openly confronting something.