tells it like it is
Pulls no punches
To tell it like it is means to speak bluntly and honestly, without softening unpleasant truths or observing social niceties.
The phrase often carries approval—someone who tells it like it is is refreshingly direct rather than diplomatic: I appreciate her because she tells it like it is.
It can also justify rudeness as plain speaking.
- plain-speakingDirect, unadorned honesty
- straight talkerOne who communicates directly
- truthfulnessHabit of not lying
- outspokenFreely expressing opinions
- voiceSound from throat
speaks their mind · candor · no filter · constructive criticism · trust-building · forthrightness · calling out · transparency · assertive · bark · no-nonsense · cuts to the chase · sincerity · straightforwardness · matter-of-factness · real talk · authenticity · straight shooter
tells it like it isbeats around the bush
Avoids saying something directly
sugarcoats · minces words · hedges · softens the blow · diplomatic
tells it like it islies
Deliberate untruths
deceives · misleads · dissembles · fabricates · spins
tell, tells, telling, teller, tellers, like, likes, liked, liking