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Region: General | Usage example: He went for a run to blow off steam after the meeting.

Blow off steam

Meaning

Release pent-up energy or frustration.

Usage

Common after stressful events.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Refers to safety valves letting steam escape from engines.

Industrial Revolution metaphor used in human emotions.

Related Idioms

Run out of steam

Lose energy or momentum.

Blowing off steam

Releasing built-up stress or frustration.

Blow the whistle

Report illicit or unethical behavior.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.