Meaning
To speak honestly and directly, without hiding anything.
Cultural Background
In Spain, 'decir las cosas a la cara' is a highly respected trait. It is linked to the concept of being 'noble' and 'trasparente'. People who don't do this are often labeled as 'falsos'. While honesty is valued, Mexican culture often uses 'el rodeo' (going around the point) to avoid hurting feelings. Saying things 'a la cara' can sometimes be seen as 'falta de educación' if not done very carefully. Argentines use the variation 'ir de frente' constantly. It is a core part of the 'porteño' identity to be direct and confrontational when necessary. Similar to Mexico, there is a high value on politeness. However, in business settings in cities like Medellín or Bogotá, 'decir las cosas a la cara' is becoming more common as a sign of efficiency.
Use the Pronoun
Always remember to use 'le' or 'te' before the verb. 'Te lo digo a la cara' sounds much more natural than just 'Digo las cosas a la cara'.
Tone Matters
This phrase can sound like a challenge. If you want to be polite, add 'con todo respeto' (with all respect) before saying it.
Meaning
To speak honestly and directly, without hiding anything.
Use the Pronoun
Always remember to use 'le' or 'te' before the verb. 'Te lo digo a la cara' sounds much more natural than just 'Digo las cosas a la cara'.
Tone Matters
This phrase can sound like a challenge. If you want to be polite, add 'con todo respeto' (with all respect) before saying it.
The 'Lo' trick
If you don't want to repeat 'las cosas', just use 'lo'. 'Dímelo a la cara' (Tell it to my face).
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing words to complete the idiom.
Si tienes un problema conmigo, prefiero que me lo digas ___ ___ ___.
The fixed idiom is 'a la cara'.
Which sentence uses the idiom correctly?
Select the natural-sounding sentence:
Spanish uses the indirect object pronoun 'me' and the definite article 'la'.
Complete the dialogue with the most appropriate response.
Juan: 'Me han dicho que no te gusta mi nuevo coche.' Tú: 'Es verdad, y...'
This expresses that you intended to be honest directly.
Match the situation to the phrase.
Someone is talking about you behind your back and you confront them.
This is the standard way to challenge someone to be direct.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Direct vs. Indirect Communication
Practice Bank
4 exercisesSi tienes un problema conmigo, prefiero que me lo digas ___ ___ ___.
The fixed idiom is 'a la cara'.
Select the natural-sounding sentence:
Spanish uses the indirect object pronoun 'me' and the definite article 'la'.
Juan: 'Me han dicho que no te gusta mi nuevo coche.' Tú: 'Es verdad, y...'
This expresses that you intended to be honest directly.
Someone is talking about you behind your back and you confront them.
This is the standard way to challenge someone to be direct.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questionsNot necessarily. It depends on your tone. It's often seen as a sign of respect and honesty in Spain.
No, that sounds like a literal translation from English. Always use 'a la cara'.
'Decir a la cara' is about speaking honestly. 'Dar la cara' is about taking responsibility for a mistake.
It's a bit informal for a legal document, but perfectly fine for a professional email or a business meeting.
Usually, yes. We don't typically use it for compliments, only for difficult truths or criticisms.
Related Phrases
No tener pelos en la lengua
similarTo speak one's mind without hesitation.
Dar la cara
similarTo take responsibility for one's actions.
Hablar a espaldas
contrastTo talk behind someone's back.
Cantar las cuarenta
specialized formTo tell someone off or tell them the truth bluntly.
