Kein Blatt vor den Mund nehmen
Example: Er nimmt kein Blatt vor den Mund und sagt immer die Wahrheit.
Definition
"Kein Blatt vor den Mund nehmen" means to speak very openly and honestly, without hiding or softening one's true thoughts or opinions. It describes someone who expresses themselves directly, often without concern for politeness or subtlety.
Etymology
The phrase "kein Blatt vor den Mund nehmen" literally translates to 'not to take a leaf in front of the mouth.' It originated from the idea of putting a leaf in front of one's mouth to muffle or hide speech. Saying the phrase means not to cover or censor what one says, thus speaking plainly and frankly. Did you know this vivid image comes from old times when leaves were sometimes used to quiet sounds?
Learn to use this expression actively
"Kein Blatt vor den Mund nehmen" appears in the Vocaplus list "", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
Would you like to not only understand these expressions, but also remember them and use them actively? Create a free account and select German as the language you want to learn.
Create a free account
speak one's mind