to be frank

IPA/təbi fɹˈaŋk/
IPA/təbi fɹˈæŋk/

to be frank — idiom

1. a phrase you say before sharing what you really think, warning the listener that

1.idiomB2
Definition

a phrase you say before sharing what you really think, warning the listener that your honest view might upset or disappoint them

Example

To be frank, Vinícius, your first plan was much stronger than this new one.

front position: to be frank, + honest assessment

To be frank with you, Esme, the soup you cooked was far too salty to finish.

to be frank with you, + clause softening a complaint

Common collocations
  • to be frank with you
  • to be frank about
Synonyms
  • to be honest

    more neutral; does not warn as strongly that the remark may sting

  • frankly

    single-word version, slightly more abrupt and formal

  • to tell you the truth

    often admits something the speaker had been holding back

Grammar Patterns

to be frank, + clause

to be frank with you, + clause

Usage Note

Sits at the front of a sentence as a comment on the whole statement that follows. Often expanded to 'to be frank with you' when speaking directly to one person, and signals that a critical or unwelcome remark is coming.

Common Mistakes

I want to be frank this meal.
To be frank, this meal was disappointing.
the phrase introduces a comment; it does not take an object.

Etymology

GermanicLatinOld FrenchEnglish

Built on the adjective 'frank', meaning open and honest, which came into English from Old French 'franc'. The Franks were a ruling Germanic people, so 'frank' first meant 'free', then later 'speaking freely without holding back'. The set phrase frames a coming remark as plain and unguarded.