How to use "To be honest" and TBH in English | Real English Expressions

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Wednesday Real English: Stop being "too blunt" with the "To be honest" rule! 😇🗣️

Infographic showing how 'To be honest' changes a blunt 'No' into a polite, sincere explanation.

Wednesday Wisdom: The Power of "To Be Honest"

🎥 Watch the video version above!

Welcome back to On Your Mark's English!

Today, we are looking at a phrase that helps you navigate social situations like a pro:

"To be honest."

In English-speaking culture, we often try to avoid being too direct or "blunt."

If someone asks you, "Do you like my new haircut?" and you say, "No," it sounds very harsh!

This is where "To be honest" comes in.

It signals to the listener that you are about to share a personal truth.

It softens the blow of a negative opinion or a rejection.

When should you use it?

1. When declining an invitation: "To be honest, I'd rather stay in tonight."

2. When giving feedback: "To be honest, I think the first draft was stronger."

3. When admitting a lack of interest: "I've never really liked football, to be honest."

   
   

TBH: The Digital Version

You will see TBH everywhere on Instagram, WhatsApp, and WeChat.

It’s the same meaning, just faster to type!

Practice Time!

Try to use "To be honest" today in a conversation or a text.

It’s a small change that makes a huge difference in how "natural" you sound.

🎯 Ready to take your English to the next level?

I offer personalised 1-to-1 lessons to help you master these expressions in real conversations.

👉 Visit www.onyourmarksenglish.com to book a session!