expression, godan verb (-ru)
break the silence; be the first to speak
Used when someone initiates conversation in a group or after a pause. Often implies taking the lead or opening a discussion.
会議で最初に口を切ったのは彼だった。
He was the one who broke the silence first at the meeting.
Since no one spoke, I decided to be the first to speak.
expression, godan verb (-ru)
open for the first time; broach; break a seal
Refers to physically opening a container, cask, or sealed item for the first time. Often used with barrels, bottles, or new products.
新しいワインの樽の口を切る。
Broach a new cask of wine.
届いたばかりの醤油瓶の口を切った。
I opened the seal on the newly delivered soy sauce bottle.