call a spade a spade

[call a spade a spade] {v. phr.}

To call a person or thing a name that is true but not polite; speak bluntly; use the plainest language.

* /A boy took some money from Dick's desk and said he borrowed it, but I told him he stole it; I believe in calling a spade a spade./

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Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms


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	spade [spade] See: CALL A SPADE A SPADE. A Dictionary of American Idioms call [call] See: AT CALL, AT ONE'S BECK AND CALL, CLOSE CALL, ON CALL, PORT OF ... A Dictionary of American Idioms on call [on call] {adj. phr.} 1. Having to be paid on demand. * /Jim didn't have ... A Dictionary of American Idioms call one's shot [call one's shot] {v. phr.} 1. To tell before firing where a bullet will hit. ... A Dictionary of American Idioms within call [within call] or [within hail] {adv. phr.} 1. Near enough to hear each other's voices. ... A Dictionary of American Idioms call out [call out] {v. phr.} 1. To shout; speak loudly. * /My name was called out ... A Dictionary of American Idioms call on [call on] or [call upon] {v.} 1. To make a call upon; visit. * /Mr. ... A Dictionary of American Idioms

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