pull one's punches
pull one's punches {v. phr.}, {informal}
1. Not to hit as hard as you can.
Jimmy pulled his punches and let Paul win the boxing match.
2. To hide unpleasant facts or make them seem good. — Usually used in the negative.
The mayor spoke bluntly; he didn't pull any punches.
Contrast: STRAIGHT PROM THE SHOULDER.
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Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms