Heart-to-heart
Meaning
A sincere and intimate conversation, often about personal feelings or important matters.
Origin
The human heart has long been considered the very core of our emotions, the inner sanctum where true feelings reside. So when two individuals engaged in a conversation so profound, so utterly candid that it seemed their innermost selves were speaking directly to each other, the natural descriptor became 'heart-to-heart.' Emerging in the English language during the 19th century, this phrase captured the essence of discussions that transcended mere words, delving deep into personal truths and vulnerabilities. It depicted a direct, unmediated exchange of genuine feeling, where defenses were down and the true self was revealed, making it a cornerstone for meaningful human connection.
Examples
- After weeks of unspoken tension, they finally sat down for a heart-to-heart and cleared the air.
- My daughter and I had a long heart-to-heart about her future plans last night.