No tener pelos en la lengua
Example: Mi abuela no tiene pelos en la lengua y siempre dice la verdad.
Definition
"No tener pelos en la lengua" is a Spanish expression meaning to speak very frankly and directly, without holding back or sugarcoating the truth. It describes someone who expresses their opinions openly and honestly, often in a straightforward or blunt manner.
Etymology
The phrase "no tener pelos en la lengua" literally translates to "not having hairs on the tongue." It likely originated as a metaphor suggesting that a person’s speech is unobstructed and clear, without any barriers or hesitation. Did you know? The expression humorously implies that having 'hairs on the tongue' would prevent someone from speaking plainly.
Learn to use this expression actively
"No tener pelos en la lengua" appears in the Vocaplus list "Spanish - General - Modismos y refranes - (C1) - parte 1", containing 120 commonly used expressions.
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to speak one's mind