WordValefrankness
openness and directness
In more detail
the quality of being honest and direct in what you say, even if it might be uncomfortable or hurt someone's feelings
Examples
- She spoke with frankness about the company's problems during the meeting.
How to use frankness
Frankness describes the quality of being honest and straightforward, often in contexts where diplomacy might be expected. It carries a tone of respect for truth-telling but can imply harshness depending on context; bluntness emphasizes lack of tactfulness, while candor suggests honesty without negative judgment.
Common phrases
- refreshing frankness
- speak with frankness
- frankness about
- disarming frankness
- brutal frankness
Synonyms
honesty · candor · directness · openness · bluntness
Opposites
deception · evasiveness · dishonesty
Word family
frank (adjective) · frankly (adverb)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse frankness with rudeness, but frankness can be tactful and respectful; rudeness prioritizes offense over honesty.
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