call a spade a spade
/kɔːl ə speɪd ə speɪd/To speak frankly or directly about something, especially when it is unpleasant or controversial.
She called a spade a spade when she told her boss that the project was doomed to fail.
She honestly admitted the project's failure without sugarcoating it.
Politicians rarely call a spade a spade; they prefer vague language.
Politicians usually avoid being direct about unpleasant truths.
This phrase is used to describe someone who avoids euphemisms and speaks plainly, even if it might be seen as harsh.
Collocations
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
When to use this phrase
Use 'call a spade a spade' when you want to emphasize someone's honesty or directness. It is best suited for informal or semi-formal contexts where bluntness is acceptable or even valued.
⚡Gold Rule
Avoid in sensitive contexts
This phrase should not be used in situations where tact and diplomacy are required, such as negotiations, conflict resolution, or discussions about sensitive topics like illness or death.
Not for criticism
This phrase describes directness, not necessarily accuracy or fairness. Someone who 'calls a spade a spade' might still be wrong or unkind in their assessment.
📖Word Origin
The phrase dates back to at least the 16th century and is attributed to the Dutch scholar Erasmus, who wrote 'To call a spade a spade' in his work 'De Copia' (1512). It originally referred to the literal meaning of the word 'spade' (a gardening tool) rather than the figurative sense. The idiomatic meaning of speaking frankly emerged later.
📝Usage Notes
This phrase is neutral to positive in tone. It is often used to praise someone for their honesty, but it can also imply a lack of tact if the speaker is too blunt. Avoid using it in formal or sensitive contexts where diplomacy is required.