Quick answer: “Call a spade a spade” means to speak plainly and directly without softening the truth.
Call a spade a spade means to speak plainly and honestly about something, using its true name without euphemism or polite evasion. It values blunt, direct communication over diplomatic softening. Literal: naming the digging tool exactly what it is. Figurative: saying exactly what something is, however uncomfortable that may be.
Origin & History
The expression traces back to a Greek proverb recorded by Erasmus in his Adagia (1500). The original Greek referred to calling a trough a trough, but when translated into English in the 16th century the word 'spade' — a common digging tool — was used, and the expression has remained unchanged ever since.
By the 17th century the phrase was well established in English literature as a way of praising plain, unvarnished honesty. Today it is used to signal that a speaker intends to be direct rather than evasive, and it often introduces a frank assessment that might otherwise be softened or avoided. Learners who want to check other figurative expressions can consult general reference works such as the Cambridge Dictionary, which document how such idioms are used today.
Example Sentences
| Sentence | Context |
|---|---|
| Let me call a spade a spade — the project failed because of poor leadership. | Workplace, frank assessment |
| She always calls a spade a spade, which some find refreshing and others find blunt. | Personality description |
| The journalist called a spade a spade and named the policy a failure. | Journalism, direct reporting |
| I will call a spade a spade: this proposal will cost twice the stated budget. | Business meeting, honesty |
| He appreciated his mentor's willingness to call a spade a spade and give honest feedback. | Mentoring, constructive criticism |
| The report called a spade a spade, describing the situation as a crisis. | Formal writing, plain language |
How to Use It
The phrase is typically used as a verb phrase: call a spade a spade or let me call a spade a spade. It often introduces a frank statement that contrasts with what others have said more diplomatically. It works well as a signal phrase before delivering an honest but potentially uncomfortable truth.
Common Mistakes
Mistakes to Avoid
She always names a spade a spade.
She always calls a spade a spade. — The fixed verb is 'call', not 'name' or 'say'.
Let me call spades spades.
Let me call a spade a spade. — The fixed form uses the indefinite article; do not pluralise.
He called a shovel a spade.
He called a spade a spade. — The idiom repeats 'spade'; do not substitute synonyms inside the phrase.
Short Dialogue
Anna: Everyone keeps saying the merger was "challenging". What do you think?
Ben: I'll call a spade a spade — it was a disaster that cost us three hundred jobs.
Anna: At least someone is being honest about it.
Similar Idioms
Practise This Idiom
Practice English Idioms
Use these exercises to master idioms in context:
Want to understand the grammar behind this? Explore our Grammar guides.
Quick Check: Call a spade a spade
2 questions — test what you just learned.
1. What does “Call a spade a spade” mean?
2. Complete the sentence: “Let me _____ — the project failed because of poor leadership.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "call a spade a spade" mean?
"Call a spade a spade" means to speak plainly and honestly about something, using its true name without softening or disguising the reality. It emphasises blunt, honest communication over polite evasion.
Where does "call a spade a spade" come from?
The expression traces back to a Greek proverb recorded by Erasmus in the early 16th century. It was translated into English and popularised during the 16th century, with the word 'spade' referring to the common digging tool.
Can you give an example of "call a spade a spade" in a sentence?
"Let me call a spade a spade — the project failed because of poor management." Another: "She always calls a spade a spade, which some colleagues find refreshing and others find uncomfortable."
Is "call a spade a spade" positive or negative?
It is neutral to mildly positive. It praises directness and honesty, though it can also imply bluntness that some may find tactless. The tone depends on context — sometimes it is a compliment, sometimes a gentle criticism of someone who lacks diplomacy.
What CEFR level is "call a spade a spade"?
C1. The idiom has a historical origin and its literal image (a spade = plain speech) is not immediately obvious, making it more suitable for upper-intermediate to advanced learners.
Is "call a spade a spade" formal or informal?
It is neutral to slightly informal. It appears in journalism, opinion writing, and conversation. It is acceptable in semi-formal contexts but may sound too colloquial in formal academic writing.
What are common mistakes with "call a spade a spade"?
Changing the verb — saying 'name a spade a spade' is incorrect. The fixed verb is 'call'. Also avoid pluralising: 'call spades spades' is not the standard form. The correct phrase is always 'call a spade a spade'.
What idioms are similar to "call a spade a spade"?
Similar expressions include 'straight from the shoulder', 'pull no punches', 'tell it like it is', and 'speak one's mind'. All emphasise plain, direct, and honest communication.
Can "call a spade a spade" be used in writing?
Yes, especially in opinion pieces, editorials, and informal essays where the writer wants to signal that they will be frank and direct. It signals an intention to avoid euphemism or evasive language.
How do I practise idioms like "call a spade a spade"?
Use LexFizz Flash Cards and Flip Tiles. Try writing a short opinion paragraph that begins 'Let me call a spade a spade...' to practise using the idiom naturally in context.