tell it like it is

idiom

Definition of tell it like it is

US, informal

: to say what the facts are : to speak about unpleasant things in an honest way

I don't want to offend anyone; I'm just telling it like it is.

Word by Word Definitions

tell play

: to relate in detail : narrate
: to give utterance to : say
: to make known : divulge, reveal

: an inadvertent behavior or mannerism that betrays a poker player's true thoughts, intentions, or emotions

: hill, mound

See the full definition of tell

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up tell it like it is? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

show

WORD OF THE DAY

notorious

play

widely and unfavorably known

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games