English

Alternative forms

• if truth be told

Interjection

truth be told

1. (idiomatic) Used when admitting something one might otherwise lie about, e.g. to keep up appearances or be polite. From "if the truth should be told".

   I'm not sure if I can do this, truth be told.

   Actually, truth be told, I just don't like you.

   • 2006, V For Vendetta (movie adaptation)

     Well, certainly there are those who are more responsible than others - and they will be held accountable - but again, truth be told, if you're looking for the guilty, you need only look into a mirror.

Synonyms

• frankly
• to be honest
• truth to tell

Translations