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English phrases for honest communication

17 phrases from the lesson “Reading Between the Lines”.

• read between the linesto understand a meaning that isn't stated directly
• get your point acrossto make sure other people understand what you're trying to say
• beat around the bushto avoid saying something directly, usually because it's difficult
• straight to the pointdirect, without unnecessary details
• a heart-to-heartan honest, personal conversation, often about feelings
• break the newsto tell someone important information, often bad news
• speak your mindto say openly and honestly what you really think
• put it bluntlyto say something in a very direct, sometimes blunt, way
• keep someone in the darkto deliberately not tell someone information
• drop a hintto suggest something indirectly rather than saying it outright
• pull no punchesto speak very directly and honestly, even if it's uncomfortable
• sugar-coat somethingto make bad news sound better or gentler than it is
• a diplomatic answera careful, tactful response that avoids offense or commitment
• choose your words carefullyto think deliberately about how to phrase something sensitive
• in no uncertain termsvery clearly and directly, leaving no room for doubt
• break the iceto ease initial awkwardness, usually at the start of a meeting or gathering
• drive the point hometo emphasize something strongly so it's clearly understood