mince words mince words {v. phr.} To choose words carefully for the sake of politeness or deception. I like people who speak frankly and truthfully without mincing words. Categories: add yours {v. phr.} Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms by A. Makkai, M.T. Boatner, J.E. Gates © 2024 To section: M Subscribe to: American IdiomsIdioms feedEnglish languageHome page and general feed Discuss