Call a spade a spade
phrase
To speak honestly and directly about a situation, even if it is uncomfortable or unpleasant.
I think it's time we call a spade a spade and acknowledge that our team did not prepare adequately for this project.
Often appears as...
- time to call a spade a spade
- she always calls a spade a spade
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To speak honestly and directly about a situation, even if it is uncomfortable or unpleasant.
I think it's time we call a spade a spade and acknowledge that our team did not prepare adequately for this project.
Often appears as...
- time to call a spade a spade
- she always calls a spade a spade
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Directness
The phrase suggests a very straightforward, no-nonsense approach to communicating.
During the meeting, the manager decided to call a spade a spade and critique the team's performance openly.
Pro Tip 2/3Potential Offense
Using the phrase can be seen as blunt and may offend, so be mindful of your audience.
When she called a spade a spade in front of the clients, they seemed a bit taken aback.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Sensitivity
Be aware that in some cultures, speaking too directly can be considered rude.
In some cultures, calling a spade a spade might not be the best approach in a formal setting.
Pro Tip 1/3Directness
The phrase suggests a very straightforward, no-nonsense approach to communicating.
During the meeting, the manager decided to call a spade a spade and critique the team's performance openly.
Pro Tip 2/3Potential Offense
Using the phrase can be seen as blunt and may offend, so be mindful of your audience.
When she called a spade a spade in front of the clients, they seemed a bit taken aback.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Sensitivity
Be aware that in some cultures, speaking too directly can be considered rude.
In some cultures, calling a spade a spade might not be the best approach in a formal setting.
Pro Tip 1/3Directness
The phrase suggests a very straightforward, no-nonsense approach to communicating.
During the meeting, the manager decided to call a spade a spade and critique the team's performance openly.
Pro Tip 2/3Potential Offense
Using the phrase can be seen as blunt and may offend, so be mindful of your audience.
When she called a spade a spade in front of the clients, they seemed a bit taken aback.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Sensitivity
Be aware that in some cultures, speaking too directly can be considered rude.
In some cultures, calling a spade a spade might not be the best approach in a formal setting.
Never forget "Call a spade a spade"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension