name names

Idioms  

1. Specify persons by name, especially those who are accused of something. For example, More than one person was involved in the robbery, and his lawyer said he would get a shorter sentence if he named names. It is also put negatively, name no names, as in Some of our neighbors disobey the town's leash law, but I'm naming no names. The negative form was first recorded in 1792.

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Example Sentences

During a recent interview on the New York Times’ ”Popcast” to discuss her latest solo album, the Paramore lead singer was asked whether she would like to “name names” to reveal who she means when she sings about being “the biggest star / At this racist country singer’s bar” in the title track.

From Los Angeles Times

The report doesn't name names, either complainants or those accused.

From BBC

“We’d like to see the commissioner use the ‘bully pulpit’ to name names of insurers that are reducing obstacles and delays by relaxing paperwork requirements — as well as those that are not,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times

“When you make a documentary it is inevitable to name names, it is inevitable to make accusations,” says Rondero.

From Los Angeles Times

He also said that he hopes the inquiry's chair, Sir Wyn Williams, would "name names in this one".

From BBC