call a spade a spade
Meaning: To speak plainly or call something by its right name, even if it is unpleasant.
Language: English
Literally: (Already vivid in English)
Category: Daily Life
Origin: The expression is usually used when something is described more favorably than it deserves. Call a spade a spade is a request for a more realistic description. The phrase dates back to ancient Greece, where the words for "spade," "boat," and "bowl" were very similar; the original translation my have been `call a boat a boat.'
More idioms — Daily Life
- call the shots — To be in control or to give orders.
- open a can of worms — A situation that contains many unexpected and unwanted problems and consequences.
- carry a torch for someone — To be in love with someone, usually someone who does not love in return.
- carry the ball — To take on work or responsibility in order to keep a project moving forward.
- catch someone red-handed — To catch someone in the act of committing some offense.
- catch someone's fancy — To appeal to someone.
More English idioms
- cast pearls before swine — To offer something to someone who cannot appreciate it.
- change horses in midstream — To change plans or leaders in the middle of some action or event.
- lead a charmed life — To be lucky or avoid danger.
- checkered past — A personal history that includes both successes and failures, or ethical and unethical be…
- a chip off the old block — Very much like one's parent(s).
- clean slate — A new beginning, usually achieved by removing any record of previous bad deeds (sentence…
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