lòi mặt nạ
Definition
- Verb phrase (idiomatic, informal):
- To reveal one's true face / to be unmasked: The phrase describes the act of accidentally or unavoidably exposing one's hidden, often negative, true nature, intentions, or character that was previously concealed behind a false appearance or pretense.
Usage Examples
- Verb phrase:
- Sau vụ scandal, hắn ta đã hoàn toàn lòi mặt nạ. (After the scandal, he was completely unmasked.)
- Đừng tin lời hắn nói, sớm muộn gì hắn cũng sẽ lòi mặt nạ thôi. (Don't believe what he says; sooner or later, his true face will be revealed.)
- Hành động đó của anh ta khiến anh ta lòi mặt nạ trước mọi người. (That action of his caused him to be unmasked in front of everyone.)
Advanced Usage
- The phrase is often used in contexts of betrayal, hypocrisy, or deception, where someone's virtuous or friendly facade collapses.
- It carries a strong negative connotation and implies criticism or condemnation of the person being "unmasked."
Synonyms
- To be exposed: to have one's faults or secrets revealed.
- To show one's true colors: to reveal one's real personality or intentions, especially when these are unpleasant.
- To be found out: to be discovered doing something wrong or secret.
Related Idioms
- Lộ mặt thật: a more neutral synonym meaning "to show one's true face."
- Vạch mặt chỉ tên: to point out and denounce someone publicly.