Choose the correct meaning of idiom: Pull no punches

The correct option is (d). The idiom Pull no punches means to speak in a very direct and honest manner without softening the truth, even if it may sound harsh (Hindi idiom/meaning: बिना लाग-लपेट के सच कहना/खुलकर बोलना). It originally comes from boxing, where ‘pulling punches’ means hitting softly; therefore, ‘pull no punches’ means not holding back. Example: The coach pulled no punches while explaining why the team performed poorly. Why other options are incorrect: Option A means staying neutral, which is unrelated. Option B means hesitation, which is opposite of speaking directly. Option C means deceiving, which is not the meaning of this idiom. Other related idioms and their meanings: Call a spade a spade – to speak plainly and directly (Hindi meaning: सीधी बात कहना). Speak one’s mind – to say what one truly thinks (Hindi meaning: अपनी राय खुलकर कहना). Not mince words – to avoid polite indirect language; be blunt (Hindi meaning: बात को घुमाए बिना कहना). So the correct answer is (d)