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Not to put too fine a point on it

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Directness

The phrase is used to be blunt and doesn't beat around the bush, meaning the speaker gets straight to the point.

Illustration for Directness
Not to put too fine a point on it, your work has been unsatisfactory.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Softening Blow

Despite its directness, it often signals that the speaker wants to soften the impact of a critical statement that follows.

Illustration for Softening Blow
Not to put too fine a point on it, but your argument is flawed at its core.
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Colloquial Use

It's a conversational phrase, used more in spoken English or casual writing, not in formal texts.

Illustration for Colloquial Use
Not to put too fine a point on it, but we're in a bit of a mess here.
Visual representation of the word "Not to put too fine a point on it"

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