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Region: General | Usage example: She didn’t pull punches when critiquing the report.

Not pull punches

Meaning

Speak bluntly without softening.

Usage

Used when describing direct feedback.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Boxing where pulling punches lessens impact.

Sports writing since early 1900s.

Related Idioms

Pull no punches

Speak or act without restraint.

Pull out all the stops

Use every resource available to achieve something.

Roll with the punches

Adapt to difficulties gracefully.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.