tell it how it is

tell it how it is

To speak bluntly, directly, and truthfully, even if what is being said is undesirable to the listener. I always respect employees who are willing to tell it how it is, rather than trying to sugarcoat everything to save a little face. I tell it how it is, and that rubs a lot of people the wrong way.

See also: how, tell

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

tell it how/like it ˈis

(informal) tell somebody something honestly and directly: All right, I’ll tell it like it is. I don’t love you Rachel, and I never have.

See also: how, like, tell

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017