tell it like it is tell it like it is {v. phr.}, {slang}, {informal} To be honest, sincere; to tell the truth. Joe is the leader of our commune; he tells it like it is. Categories: add yours {informal} {slang} {v. phr.} Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms by A. Makkai, M.T. Boatner, J.E. Gates © 2024 To section: T Subscribe to: American IdiomsIdioms feedEnglish languageHome page and general feed Comment on this entry