Did a friend say 'no bones about it' after you challenged them to an embarrassing task? This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
The expression 'no bones about it' means you have no hesitation in confronting an embarrassing or awkward situation. You feel comfortable when dealing with people that others find uncomfortable or embarrassing.
It's a way of saying that you don't feel squeamish or struggle with people in awkward circumstances, and you have no qualms with confronting or dealing with these issues.
Example Usage
"If you want me to fire her, no worries. I have no bones about it. I can look her in the eyes and terminate her without a second thought. Maybe I'm a bit sociopathic like that."
"I have no bones about it. I'll step to that girl and ask her for her number, even if it gets me slapped in the face. You willing to bet me I won't do it?"
"Look, it might bother you, but I have no bones about it. I'll do whatever it takes to make it happen, even if I have to pace myself in an awkward position."
"I'll grab it, no bones about it. I don't fear snakes. They're like dogs to me. I have dozens of them at home as pets."
"I have no bones about it. Some people see it as awkward or embarrassing, but I see it as amusing. You can rely on me to take care of it if you can't find anyone else."
"I don't get it. Yesterday you said you have no bones about it, and today you refuse to do it. What's with the sudden change in your attitude?"
"I don't care if she shames me. I have no bones about it. Let's get it over with, and we'll be ready to go to lunch."
Origin
The expression 'no bones about it' originates from an earlier rendition of the phrase 'to find no bones in something.' This version of the saying means to find difficulties or obstacles in something.
This version of the term first appears in the writings of Friar Brackley in a letter to John Paston in 1459 concerning a legal dispute between the two.
“and fond that tyme no bonys in the matere.”
(Undertook it and, that time, found no bones in the matter).
The contemporary version of the saying first appears in 'The theatre of Gods' in 1597, where it reads as follows.
"Divers of the Roman Emperours were so villanous and wretched, as to make no bones of this sin with their owne sisters, as Caligula, Antonius, and Commodus."
Phrases Similar to No Bones about It
- Nerves of steel.
- Clearheaded and calm.
- No bother.
Phrases Opposite to No Bones about It
- Scared.
- Cowardice.
- Chicken.
- Sensitive soul.
What is the Correct Saying?
- No bones about it.
Ways People May Say No Bones about It Incorrectly
The phrase 'no bones about it' doesn't have anything to do with bones. The 'bones' in this situation are your emotions. By saying 'no bones about it,' you imply that you don't feel remorse or regret for confronting an awkward position.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase No Bones About It
You can use the expression 'no bones about it' when addressing something you find unappealing or awkward. It shows that you have no issues with addressing the problem or situation, and it doesn't affect your mental state or decision-making process: the phrase suits social and professional use and text-based and verbal communications.
You can use 'no bones about it' at work to describe how you're comfortable with firing employees and the decision won't affect your mental health. You could use it with friends to explain how you have the courage to step to a pretty girl and ask her for her number without losing your cool. It's a way of saying you're brave and cool-headed in compromising or embarrassing situations in life.