dutch uncle
Definition
Noun: A person who gives frank, stern, or blunt advice, often in a critical or admonishing manner, as if speaking with the directness and authority of a family member.
Usage
The term "Dutch uncle" is used to describe someone who offers counsel that is straightforward, honest, and often severe or reproachful. It implies a tone that is less about gentle guidance and more about tough love or harsh truth-telling.
Examples
- He sat me down and gave me a talk like a Dutch uncle about my irresponsible spending habits.
- I don't need a Dutch uncle right now; I need someone to listen sympathetically.
- She acted as a Dutch uncle to the new intern, bluntly pointing out every mistake to help him improve quickly.
Advanced Usage
- To talk to someone like a Dutch uncle: To admonish or advise someone with severe frankness.
- The manager talked to the underperforming team like a Dutch uncle, warning them that their jobs were at risk.
Variants and Related Words
- Admonisher (noun): One who warns or reprimands someone firmly.
- Frank (adjective): Open, honest, and direct in speech or writing.
Synonyms
- Straight talker
- Blunt advisor
- Stern counselor
Related Idioms
- To give someone a piece of one's mind: To express one's disapproval or criticism very frankly.
- This idiom shares the concept of direct, critical speech but lacks the specific mentoring connotation of a "Dutch uncle".
Noun
-
a counselor who admonishes frankly and sternly
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