Mince words Meaning in English
expression
ˈmɪns/ /ˈwɝdz
MINSS WURDZ
mˈɪns/ /wˈɜːdz
MINSS WURDZ
Definition
To avoid speaking directly or bluntly, often by softening the truth or not giving a clear opinion.
Usage & Nuances
Most often appears in the negative form: 'not mince words', meaning to speak very directly or bluntly. Formal or semi-formal, often describing criticism or strong opinions. Rarely used outside of this fixed phrase. Do not confuse with 'minced meat'.
Spanish: andar con rodeos - medir las palabrasPortuguese (BR): medir as palavras - usar meias palavrasPortuguese (PT): medir as palavras - usar meias palavrasChinese (Simplified): 拐弯抹角 - 说话委婉Chinese (Traditional): 拐彎抹角 - 說話委婉Hindi: बचकर बोलना - शब्दों को तोलनाArabic: ينتقي كلماته - يراعي الكلماتBengali: সরাসরি কথা না বলা - সত্য গোপন করা (ভদ্রভাবে)Russian: смягчать выражения - говорить завуалированоJapanese: はっきり言わない - 遠回しに言うVietnamese: nói vòng vo - tránh nói thẳngKorean: 돌려 말하다 - 직설적으로 말하지 않다Turkish: lafı dolandırmak - doğrudan konuşmamakUrdu: گول مول بات کرنا - صاف گوئی سے گریز کرناIndonesian: berkata secara tidak langsung - berputar-putar
Example Sentences
He doesn't mince words when he talks about politics.
basic
She will not mince words if she is upset.
basic
The boss did not mince words during the meeting.
basic
Let’s not mince words—the project failed terribly.
natural
If you want honest feedback, I won’t mince words.
natural
Jack is known for not mincing words with his team.
natural