make no bones about

Idioms and Phrases

Act or speak frankly about something, without hesitation or evasion. For example, Tom made no bones about wanting to be promoted , or Make no bones about it—she's very talented . Versions of this expression date back to the mid-1400s and the precise allusion is no longer known. Some believe it meant a boneless stew or soup that one could eat without hesitation; others relate it to dice, originally made from bones, that were thrown without hesitation or fuss.

Example Sentences

During his ultimately victorious campaign for the presidency, Donald Trump made no bones about his intention to use the legal levers of government to go after his perceived enemies.

From Los Angeles Times

Stewart makes no bones about her perfectionism or her lack of warmth, which she freely surmises is the reason her closest relationships suffered.

From Salon

The Saviors Tour, as Green Day is calling this trek after the title of its strong 2024 LP, makes no bones about the nostalgia baked into its premise.

From Los Angeles Times

Delhi has made no bones about its dislike for the Sikh separatist - a man they designated a terrorist in 2020.

From BBC

“Donald Trump has made no bones about his desire to retaliate against his opponents,” Mr. Cole said.

From New York Times