He said the quiet part loud during the meeting.
say the quiet part loud
idiomTo willingly express a sentiment that is normally considered embarrassing or disreputable to hold; to reveal an ulterior motive.
Origin
disputed originCorpus searches seem to confirm that this phrase was absent from widespread usage until after the mid-1990s, when the cartoon character Krusty the Clown used a similar phrase in the episode "A Star Is Burns" of the American animated TV series The Simpsons, saying, "I said the quiet part loud and the loud part quiet."
The politician accidentally said the quiet part loud when he admitted he only cared about the campaign donations.
By suggesting that the company should prioritize profits over employee safety, the manager said the quiet part loud, shocking everyone in the boardroom.
- 01
final say
The right to make a final decision.
- 02
for crying out loud
Used to express frustration, exasperation, or annoyance.
- 03
for fucking out loud
Synonym of for crying out loud.
- 04
for the most part
In most aspects; mostly; generally.
- 05
have a quiet word
To speak to someone in private.
- 06
have a say
To (receive the opportunity to) voice one's opinion.
- 07
I'd say
It is my estimate or opinion.
- 08
I'll say
Used to indicate emphatic agreement