Honesty
Give the benefit of the doubt
Meaning
Decide to believe a statement which isn’t proven.
Examples
He says he used to run the 100 yards in 10 seconds. I’m not sure but he looks pretty fit so I’ll give him the benefit of the doubt.
Where did it originate?
Britain, 15th century.
Where is it used?
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Make no bones about
Meaning
To state a fact so there are no doubts about it.
Examples
I’ll make no bones about it – Pol Pot was a murdering dictator.
Where did it originate?
Britain, late 19th century.
Where is it used?
Worldwide, but somewhat old-fashioned.
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How the idiom originated
Mea culpa
Meaning
I’m to blame.
Examples
The white washing came out pink again. Sorry, mea culpa, my red socks got mixed in with the sheets.
Where did it originate?
Latin. a literal translation is ‘I am culpable’.
Where is it used?
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Shoot straight
Meaning
To talk or deal honestly.
Examples
I’ve worked with Jabril for twenty years and never had reason to doubt his word. He’s a real straight-shooter.
Where did it originate?
USA, 1930s.
Where is it used?
Mostly USA.
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Straight from the horses mouth
Meaning
Heard from the authoritative source.
Examples
There’s going to be an election in May. My sister is the Prime Ministers secretary so I got that straight from the horses mouth.
Where did it originate?
Uncertain origin, probably 20th century USA.
Where is it used?
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