let off steam
Blow off frustration
To let off steam is to release pent-up energy, frustration, or tension through vigorous activity or emotional expression.
The phrase comes from steam engines, which required periodic venting to prevent dangerous pressure buildup.
After a stressful week, I need to let off steam at the gym.
Also blow off steam.
- pressure cookerSealed pot using steam
- decompressRelease stored pressure
- ventOpening for airflow
- catharsisPurification through emotional expression
- outburstSudden emotional release
get it off your chest · have a meltdown · unwind · scream · let oneself go · release · rage · speak out · yell · depressurize · wind down · rant · talk it out · exercise · work it out · cry · blow off · sound off
- energy idiomsfull of beans, running on empty, second wind, burn out, fired up
- train termsall aboard, engine, departure time, arrival time, passenger car
- anger expressionssee red, seeing red, lose your temper, blow a fuse, blow a gasket
- calmingcalm, calm down, soothe, relax, pacify