歯に衣を着せぬ

はにきぬをきせぬ
Alternative writings: 歯に衣をきせぬ, 歯に絹を着せぬ
Frequency:
1

To speak bluntly or directly without softening one's words. It denotes frankness; depending on context it can be seen as refreshingly candid or harsh.

ExpressionNoun or Verb Acting PrenominallyIdiomatic Expression

Examples

彼は歯に衣を着せぬ性格で、会議ではいつも核心を突く発言をする。

He is blunt by nature and always makes pointed comments in meetings.

上司としては、時には歯に衣を着せぬ指摘が必要だ。

As a manager, sometimes blunt criticism is necessary.

彼女の歯に衣を着せぬ物言いに、部下は驚いたが納得もした。

Her frank manner surprised the subordinates, but they also accepted it.