home truth

noun

1. an indisputable fact or basic truth, especially one whose accuracy may cause discomfort or embarrassment.

home truth

noun

1. often plural an unpleasant fact told to a person about himself

Word History and Origins

Origin of home truth¹

First recorded in 1705–15

Idioms and Phrases

A key or basic truth, especially one that is discomforting to acknowledge. For example, It's time you told a few home truths here, such as where your campaign finances actually came from . This expression uses home in the sense of “the very heart of a matter.” [c. 1700]

Example Sentences

"You are going to tell them some home truths sometimes and they might be upset with them, but not completely berating them down to nothing."

From BBC

BBC Sport's Six Nations pundits reveal their desert island nightmares, their alternative career ambitions, and some brutal home truths.

From BBC

Three former offenders who have turned their lives around delivered some home truths to the peers this week.

From BBC

He ended his speech with what he called "three home truths" that "we need if we are to navigate these difficult times".

From BBC

Like so many of Edna’s guests, they grasp that her narcissism frees her from malice, that she dispenses home truths the same way she might offer decorating tips.

From Washington Post