# tell it like it is

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/tell-it-like-it-is
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To speak frankly, to convey all and only the truth of a situation.

## Examples

- My boss always tells it like it is.
- She is a good leader because she tells it like it is, even when the news is bad.
- Although his blunt honesty often offended his colleagues, he refused to change his ways and continued to tell it like it is during every board meeting.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.