tell it how it is

tell it how it is

To speak bluntly, directly, and truthfully, even if what is being said is undesirable to the listener. I always respect employees who are willing to tell it how it is, rather than trying to sugarcoat everything to save a little face. I tell it how it is, and that rubs a lot of people the wrong way.
See also: how, tell
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

tell it how/like it ˈis

(informal) tell somebody something honestly and directly: All right, I’ll tell it like it is. I don’t love you Rachel, and I never have.
See also: how, like, tell
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • tell it how/like it is
  • tell it like it is
  • Tell it like it is!
  • tell it like it is, to
  • TILII
  • I don't suppose
  • spill (one's) guts on (someone or something)
  • spill one’s guts on someone
  • spill one’s guts to someone
  • spill (one's) guts to (someone)