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level with

B2 informal inseparable transitive
In simple words

To tell someone the truth, even if it's hard to hear.

Literal meaning: To place oneself at the same level or height as someone — implying equality and openness.

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic informal

To be completely honest and direct with someone, often revealing something important or uncomfortable.

"Let me level with you — I don't think you're ready for the promotion yet."

"I'm going to level with you — this is not going to be easy."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 idiomatic informal

To speak frankly to someone after a period of uncertainty or avoidance, often as a way of clearing the air.

"She finally levelled with her manager about the problems she'd been having on the project."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Always followed by a person ('level with me', 'level with her'). Has a slightly confessional or frank tone — often used when the speaker is about to say something unexpected or blunt. Common in American English.

Commonly used with

me you him her us them

Forms

Base
level with
I/you/we/they
3rd person
levels with
he/she/it
Past simple
leveled with
yesterday
Past participle
leveled with
have + pp
-ing form
leveling with
continuous

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