STRAIGHT FROM THE SHOULDER

{adv. phr.}, {informal} In an open and honest way of speaking; without holding back anything because of fear or politeness or respect for someone's feelings; frankly. * /John asked what he had done wrong. Bob told him straight from the shoulder./ * /The candidate for Congress spoke out against his opponent's dishonesty straight from the shoulder./ Contrast: PULL ONE'S PUNCHES.