bare truth

USAGE SUMMARY

"bare truth" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to contrast the literal truth with an embellished, sanitized, or exaggerated version of that truth. For example: "Although certain people may try to tell you otherwise, the bare truth is that the product is overpriced and not worth the cost."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

I believe the horrendous hatred will disintegrate gradually only when the bare truth is uncovered.

Princeton University

"We were not used to this kind of display," Ellen explains, "this bare truth".

The New York Times - Books

There is no reason to doubt the bare truth of these reminiscences.

The New Yorker

If I had to stick to the facts, the bare truth of things, that would be no use either.

The New York Times

But only sort-of, because facts are rarely simple bare truth propositions – and almost never in politics.

The Guardian - Opinion

Comey-over: A pathetic and vain maneuver to cover up the bare truth about yourself by blaming someone else.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

The bare naked truth of our present welfare system is a racially biased, overly paternalistic, unnecessarily controlling, grossly exclusionary system of punishment and blame that limits opportunity and taxes working beneficiaries more than any other worker in any income tax bracket.

TechCrunch

The movement seemed to help me feel more alive (and worthy, if you want to know the bare naked truth of it all).

Huffington Post

And it seems to me that these bare truths - the truths about what it's like to be us - cut deeper than any of our 'beliefs.'beliefs

Huffington Post

Hilary Benn MP, Labour's shadow communities and local government secretary, said: "This leaked document lays bare the stark truth of this Tory-led government's failure on housing.

BBC

The uprising in the Ukraine, the Arab Spring, the Green movement in Iran, and the current humanitarian disasters in Iraq and Syria, lay bare a stark truth: we cannot affect change internationally without reliable or well-reputed allies on the ground.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bare truth" when you want to emphasize that you are presenting facts without any embellishment or exaggeration. This is particularly effective in situations where others might be tempted to soften the reality.

Common error

Avoid using "bare truth" when a gentler or more tactful approach is needed. The phrase implies a starkness that can be perceived as insensitive, so consider your audience and the situation's emotional needs.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bare truth" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes the fundamental, unadorned reality of a situation. According to Ludwig AI, it's used to contrast with embellished or sanitized versions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bare truth" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a reality presented without embellishment. As Ludwig AI explains, it emphasizes directness and transparency. It is frequently found in news and media contexts, but also appears in academic settings. When writing, be mindful of the potential for harshness and consider whether a more nuanced approach might be more appropriate. Alternatives include "unvarnished truth" and "naked truth", which offer slightly different shades of meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unvarnished truth

Similar meaning, highlighting the lack of embellishment.

naked truth

Similar meaning, emphasizing vulnerability and exposure.

plain truth

Focuses on simplicity and straightforwardness.

simple truth

Emphasizes the lack of complexity.

cold hard facts

More assertive, focusing on undeniable evidence.

undeniable reality

Emphasizes the irrefutable nature of the situation.

honest truth

Slightly redundant, but emphasizes sincerity.

brutal truth

Highlights the harshness and unpleasantness.

unpleasant reality

Highlights the negative aspects of a situation.

unadorned facts

Focuses on lack of decoration or embellishment.

FAQs

How can I use "bare truth" in a sentence?

You can use "bare truth" to emphasize the stark, unadorned reality of a situation. For example: "The "unvarnished truth" is that the company is facing serious financial difficulties".

What's a synonym for "bare truth"?

Synonyms include "naked truth", "plain truth", or "simple truth". Each carries a similar meaning, emphasizing the unembellished nature of the facts.

Is it appropriate to use "bare truth" in formal writing?

Yes, "bare truth" is appropriate in formal writing, especially when you need to convey a sense of directness and transparency. However, be mindful of the tone and ensure it aligns with the overall message. An alternative in some contexts could be "unadorned facts".

What is the difference between "bare truth" and "brutal truth"?

While both phrases describe reality, "bare truth" focuses on the lack of embellishment, while "brutal truth" emphasizes the harsh or unpleasant nature of the reality. Choose "bare truth" when you want to present facts directly, and "brutal truth" when the facts are particularly difficult to accept.