本ほん音ねを言いう

expression, godan verb (-u)

speak one's mind; be frank; tell the truth

Used when someone reveals their true feelings or honest opinion, often after hiding it. Contrasts with 建前 (tatemae), the public stance.

• 彼かれはいつも本ほん音ねを言いうから、信しん頼らいできる。

  He always speaks his mind, so I can trust him.

• 会かい議ぎではなかなか本ほん音ねを言いえない。

  It's hard to be frank in meetings.