English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Make no bones about
Meaning
The idiom "make no bones about" means to be direct and honest, to speak plainly or directly, to have no reservations about something. It is often used to indicate that someone is not hiding anything or trying to deceive others.
Usage
- I always make no bones about my opinions; I believe in speaking the truth.
- Our manager makes no bones about his expectations for our team - we need to perform at our best every day.
- She made no bones about her love for chocolate; she ate it in large quantities every day.
- When faced with a difficult decision, he always makes no bones about what he needs to do.
- The journalist made no bones about his criticism of the government's policies.
Roots and History
The origin of this idiom is unclear, but it is believed to have emerged in the Middle Ages. It was said that during this time, people would make "bones" out of their meat by removing it from the body. However, if someone was very direct or honest about something, they were said to have made "no bones about it". Over time, the idiom evolved to mean being direct and honest without any reservations or hesitation. It became more common in the 18th century when people began using it to describe their opinions on various topics.
Synonyms in English
- Be straight with me
- Tell me the truth
- Speak openly
- Express myself honestly
- Share my feelings directly
Synonyms in other languages
- Latin: "In veritate" - translated as "in truth". This idiom is commonly used to indicate that someone is being honest and forthright in their words.
- French: "J'ai le droit de dire" - translated as "I have the right to say". This idiom is used to express one's opinion without hesitation or fear of backlash.
- German: "Ich sage es dir ehrlich" - translated as "I am telling you honestly". This idiom is used to convey that what someone is saying is true and accurate.
- Spanish: "Por favor, habla claramente" - translated as "Please speak clearly". This idiom is used to request that someone be direct and straight to the point in their communication.
- Italian: "Dicci tutto da capo" - translated as "Tell me everything from the beginning". This idiom is used to ask someone to provide a complete and unbiased account of something.