call a spade a spade

To "call a spade a spade" is an idiom meaning to address a subject directly and bluntly, without using euphemisms to soften the delivery of unpleasant truths. The phrase has classical roots, originating from a translation of Plutarch’s Apophthegmata Laconica. It entered the English language in 1542 when Nicholas Udall translated a Latin work by Erasmus, establishing the metaphor as a reference to the common gardening tool.

The term is contested today because the word "spade" evolved into a derogatory racial slur for African Americans in the early 20th century. While etymologists generally agree that the idiom (referencing the tool) is historically unrelated to the slur (derived from the color of the playing card suit), the phonetic identity causes discomfort for many. Inclusive language guides often recommend avoiding the phrase to prevent perceived insensitivity, while others argue that the idiom's long history and distinct etymology validate its continued use.

Example:
"I didn't want to hurt his feelings, but I had to call a spade a spade and tell him his work wasn't up to par."

Example:
"She is known for her willingness to call a spade a spade, even when it makes the board members uncomfortable."

References:

• NPR's Code Switch explored the history of the term, noting: "'Spade' didn't become a slur until the 1920s... But even though the phrase 'call a spade a spade' has nothing to do with race, it still makes people nervous." (source)