To tell the truth, I do not like this movie.
to tell the truth
idiomAn attestation to the truthfulness and frankness of an associated statement.
I was nervous about the interview, but to tell the truth, I think it went quite well.
To tell the truth, the decision to abandon the project was not made lightly, but it was necessary for the long-term health of the company.
- 01
a little bird told me
I received the information from a source which I am not prepared to disclose.
- 02
all told
With everything included, counted, or summed; in total.
- 03
bend the truth
To change or leave out certain facts of a story or situation, generally in order to elicit a specific response in the audience.
- 04
don't tell me
Used to introduce a guess at a fact or situation, as if forestalling the other speaker's utterance.
- 05
economical with the truth
Not telling the whole truth, especially in order to present a false image of a situation; untruthful; lying. Often used with sarcasm or satire.
- 06
God's honest truth
Unquestionable, absolute truth.
- 07
grain of truth
Synonym of kernel of truth.
- 08
I can tell you
Emphasises the truth of a statement.
Last updated April 17, 2026