Meaning
To become known to the public.
Cultural Background
The phrase is often associated with the 'Solidarity' movement and the uncovering of communist-era secrets. Tabloids like 'Fakt' or 'Super Express' frequently use this phrase in headlines to create a sense of drama. Classic Polish crime novels often use this phrase during the 'reveal' scene where the detective explains the motive. Poles use this phrase to express a sense of 'I knew it!' or 'The truth always wins.'
Use the Past Tense
90% of the time, you will use this in the past tense ('wyszło na jaw') because we usually talk about secrets after they have already been discovered.
Don't use with people
A person cannot 'wyjść na jaw.' Only facts, truths, secrets, or scandals can.
Meaning
To become known to the public.
Use the Past Tense
90% of the time, you will use this in the past tense ('wyszło na jaw') because we usually talk about secrets after they have already been discovered.
Don't use with people
A person cannot 'wyjść na jaw.' Only facts, truths, secrets, or scandals can.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word in the phrase.
Nikt nie wiedział o ich planach, ale wczoraj wszystko wyszło na _______.
'Wyjść na jaw' is the fixed expression for a secret becoming known.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
Select the correct form:
The secret (subject) comes out on the jaw (fixed idiom).
Match the situation to the sentence.
A journalist discovers a government scandal.
The truth about the scandal is what 'comes out'.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesNikt nie wiedział o ich planach, ale wczoraj wszystko wyszło na _______.
'Wyjść na jaw' is the fixed expression for a secret becoming known.
Select the correct form:
The secret (subject) comes out on the jaw (fixed idiom).
A journalist discovers a government scandal.
The truth about the scandal is what 'comes out'.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsNo, in this context, 'jaw' is an archaic word for clarity or reality. The anatomical jaw is 'szczęka'.
Almost! The full phrase is 'wyjść na światło dzienne' (to come to the light of day).
It is neutral. You can use it with your boss or your best friend.
The opposite is 'pozostać w ukryciu' (to remain hidden) or 'zostać zatuszowanym' (to be covered up).
Related Phrases
wyjść na światło dzienne
synonymTo come to the light of day.
wydać się
similarTo be found out.
ujawnić
builds onTo reveal something.
zatuszować
contrastTo cover up.
