苦く言げんを呈ていする

expression, suru verb (special)

give candid advice; admonish honestly

Used when someone offers frank, often unwelcome advice or criticism out of genuine concern. The phrase implies the advice may be harsh but is well-intentioned.

• 上じょう司しは部ぶ下かに苦く言げんを呈ていしたが、それは彼かれの成せい長ちょうを願ねがってのことだった。

  The boss gave his subordinate some candid advice, hoping for his growth.

• 友ゆう人じんとして苦く言げんを呈ていするが、その計けい画かくは見み直なおしたほうがいい。

  As a friend, I must be honest with you—you should reconsider that plan.