图穷匕现

图穷匕现 [tú qióng bǐ xiàn]

1. ■ （又作“图穷匕首见”）When the map was spread out, a stiletto was exposed -- an attempt frustrated by its exposure.; come to open hostilities after subterfuges fail; One's dagger is drawn when other means are exhausted.; the discovery of a plot; When deception wears thin, force comes to the fore.; When one is no longer able to keep up pretenses, he shows his teeth.; When the map was unrolled, the dagger was revealed -- the real intention is revealed in the end.