Choose the correct meaning of the idiom: Make no bones about it

Question

Choose the correct meaning of the idiom: Make no bones about it

1. A. To hesitate before speaking
2. B. To remain neutral
3. C. To be direct and honest (Correct answer)
4. D. To confuse the listener

Correct Answer

Option C — To be direct and honest

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is To be direct and honest.

Key Points

• Make no bones about it means to state something plainly and without hesitation, showing no reluctance or embarrassment.
• The distractors reverse or muddle that sense — hesitating, staying neutral, or confusing the listener are all the opposite of speaking plainly.

Additional Information

• The phrase is thought to derive from soup: broth with no bones in it could be swallowed without difficulty or objection.
• Idioms of plain speaking: call a spade a spade, not mince words, get straight to the point, lay it on the line, talk turkey.
• Idioms of evasion, useful as their contrast: beat about the bush, hedge one's bets, sit on the fence, pussyfoot around.