mince matters

Idioms  

1. Also, mince words. Moderate or restrain one's language to be polite or avoid giving offense. Today these phrases are nearly always put negatively, as in Not to mince matters, I feel he should resign, or Don't mince words—say what you mean. The usage dates from the mid-1500s and transfers cutting something such as meat into small pieces to minimizing the harsh impact of words.

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Example Sentences

I regret to speak so unequivocally, but I never mince matters where my profession is concerned.

From One of My Sons by Green, Anna Katharine

What need was there for him to mince matters?

From Norine's Revenge; Sir Noel's Heir by Fleming, May Agnes

I give it to 'em, and I didn't mince matters none.

From Susan Clegg and Her Love Affairs by Warner, Anne

It seems that when he was angry the Maréchal didn't mince matters, and used most emphatic expressions.

From Letters of a Diplomat's Wife 1883-1900 by Waddington, Mary King

You see, I never was one to mince matters.

From Dorrien of Cranston by Mitford, Bertram