1374 Let's face it.. - English Idioms

Explanation

Used to introduce an unpleasant or unavoidable truth that the speaker believes needs to be acknowledged, even if it's difficult.
Implies that people might be avoiding this truth, and it's time to be realistic.

Origin

Comes from the idiom to face something, meaning to confront or accept a difficult situation or reality directly.
Let's invites the listener(s) to join the speaker in this act of acceptance.

Alternatives

Slang/Informal:

Real talk... (Introduces a blunt truth)
Keep it real... (Advises honesty/realism, similar sentiment)
It is what it is... (Expresses acceptance of an unpleasant reality, often follows the 'Let's face it' statement)
Bottom line... (Focuses on the essential, often unpleasant, truth)

Vulgar/Emphatic:

Let's face fucking facts... (Strong emphasis)

Milder/Standard:

We have to acknowledge...
Candidly speaking...

Situational Appropriateness

Common in informal and semi-formal contexts.
Use with caution in very formal settings or with sensitive topics, as it can sound blunt or pessimistic. Tone is crucial.

Misunderstanding Warnings

Generally well understood. The main risk is using it insensitively about a topic the listener finds painful.

Examples

We keep hoping the project will finish on time, but let's face it, we're already two weeks behind schedule.
Let's face it, I'm not getting any younger.
You can try dieting, but let's face it, you love cake too much. (Can be used humorously/teasingly)

Dialogue

Person A: I really thought I could run a marathon with just one month of training.

Person B: Let's face it, that was probably a bit too ambitious. Maybe aim for a 10k first?

Person A: Yeah... you're probably right. Sigh.

Response Patterns

Listeners might sigh, nod in reluctant agreement, or chuckle if the tone is humorous.
May respond with Yeah, you're right, That's true, or sometimes try to argue against the point if they aren't ready to accept it.

Common Follow-up Questions/Actions

After stating the truth, the conversation might shift to:

Discussing the implications of that truth (So what do we do now?).
Expressing shared feelings about it (resignation, frustration).
Trying to find solutions or ways to cope.

Conversation Starter

No. Used mid-conversation when confronting a difficult aspect of the topic.

Intonation

Often spoken with a tone of resignation or blunt realism.
Stress usually falls on face. Let's FACE it...
Can be followed by a brief pause before stating the unpleasant truth.

Generation Differences

Used across most adult age groups.

Regional Variations

Common in all major English-speaking regions.

In any case.

🎲 Lo and behold..

[1374] Let's face it..