のれんを分わける

expression, ichidan verb

set up a branch shop; allow a trusted employee to open a branch

Idiomatic expression from the practice of a master allowing a long-term apprentice to use the same shop curtain (のれん) and name to open a branch. Implies trust and recognition of skill.

• 彼かれは長なが年ねん修しゅう業ぎょうした後あと、師し匠しょうにのれんを分わけてもらった。

  After many years of apprenticeship, his master allowed him to set up a branch shop.

• のれんを分わけることは、単たんに店みせを出だす以い上じょうの意い味みがある。

  Setting up a branch under the same shop name carries more meaning than simply opening a store.