candid

Word family

• candidly
  adverbB2
• candidness
  nounC1
• candour
  nounB2
• candor
  nounB2

Synonym discussion

Sense: adjective/1

These adjectives all describe someone who speaks their mind openly, but they differ in tone and implication. Frank suggests simple, unguarded honesty with a positive or neutral flavour; a frank comment is direct but not harsh. Forthright has a more formal feel and implies a fearless readiness to state one's position clearly. Blunt goes further — it describes someone who delivers truth without softening it, which can come across as insensitive or rude. Outspoken carries a stronger sense of challenging authority or convention; an outspoken activist criticises the system publicly. For example, a candid friend tells you an unpleasant truth kindly; a blunt one might leave you hurt. A forthright manager states expectations clearly; an outspoken employee challenges company policy at a meeting.

Common collocations

Etymology

From Latin 'candidus' meaning 'white, bright, pure.' The sense of honesty developed from the idea of being clear and unclouded — like white light that conceals nothing. The photography sense emerged in the early 20th century, playing on the idea of capturing natural, uncontrived moments.