If you make no bones about something, you're speaking plainly and telling the truth. For example, if you are honest and admit that you didn't do your homework, you're making no bones about it. This expression dates back to the 1500s and some people believe it had to do with soup. If there were no bones in a soup, a person could swallow it without worrying about choking. Likewise, when you make no bones about something, people can feel confident "swallowing" your answer.

Reviewed by: Mary L. Gavin, MD
Date reviewed: February 2007