not to be rude
- excuse meApology for minor intrusion
- pardonOfficial release from punishment
- no offenseVerbal cushion before criticism
- sorry butApologetic preface to refusal
- frankOpen and direct
blunt · honest · candid · awkward · hesitant · polite · tactful · diplomatic · interrupting · speaking up · clearing throat · apologetic · gentle · softening · prefacing · disclaimer · uncomfortable · delicate
- conversational hedgesjust saying, to be honest, frankly, honestly, truth be told
communicative intent
not to be rudeto be frank
Speaking without concealment
frankly speaking · gloves off · straight up · real talk · cutting to the chase
social register
not to be rudelook
Direct one's gaze
here's the thing · straight up · real talk · cards on the table · bottom line
degree of social consideration
not to be rudecutting to the chase
Proceeding to essentials immediately
gloves off · tactlessly · unapologetically · tough love · harsh truth