Call a spade a spade

Posted by Sam McMillan on July 27, 2000

What is the derivation of this phrase: call a spade a spade. Some folks in the office think this is derogatory and racist. I'm thinking it comes from the construction trades.

any ideas

thanks

• Call a spade a spade Gary Martin 07/27/00
  • Call a spade a spade Bruce Kahl 07/27/00
    • Spade is a spade Bruce Swanwick 08/05/00
    • Call a spade a spade Frankie 07/27/00
      • Call a spade a spade Bob 07/27/00
      • Call a spade a spade ESC 07/27/00
        • Call a spade a spade Bruce 08/05/00