bluntly
/'blʌntli/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adverb:
- In a direct and straightforward manner, often without concern for politeness or subtlety: "bluntly" describes speaking or acting in a way that is frank, honest, and to the point, sometimes perceived as abrupt or lacking tact.
Usage
- "Bluntly" is used to modify verbs, typically verbs of communication like "speak," "say," "state," or "put." It indicates that the manner of communication is direct and unambiguous.
- It often precedes or follows the verb it modifies.
- The word can imply a lack of the usual social niceties, so context is important. It can be neutral (simply direct) or slightly negative (brusque or rude).
Examples
- Adverb:
- She told him bluntly that his idea would not work.
- "You're not qualified for this job," he said bluntly.
- To put it bluntly, the project was a complete failure.
Advanced Usage
- "To speak bluntly" / "To put it bluntly": These are common introductory phrases used to signal that the speaker is about to state an honest, possibly uncomfortable, opinion directly.
- To put it bluntly, we are running out of time and money.
- Used to describe a manner of expression that is intentionally not softened.
- The report bluntly criticizes the government's handling of the crisis.
Variants and Related Words
- Blunt (adjective): Having a dull edge or point; (of a person or remark) uncompromisingly direct.
- a blunt knife
- He is known for his blunt opinions.
- Bluntness (noun): The quality of being blunt.
- Her bluntness sometimes offends people.
Synonyms
- Frankly: In an open, honest, and direct manner.
- Candidly: In a truthful and straightforward way.
- Plainly: In a clear and unambiguous manner.
- Directly: In a straightforward way.
- Flatly: In a firm and unequivocal manner (often used with denial or refusal, e.g., "He flatly refused").
Antonyms
- Diplomatically: In a tactful and sensitive manner.
- Indirectly: In a roundabout way.
- Subtly: In a delicate or understated manner.
- Evasively: In a way that avoids giving a direct answer.
Related Phrases
- Not to mince words: To speak directly and frankly.
- Not to mince words, your performance has been unsatisfactory.
- Call a spade a spade: To speak the truth plainly without euphemism.
- She always calls a spade a spade, which I appreciate.
Adverb
- in a blunt direct manner
- he spoke bluntly
- he stated his opinion flat-out
- he was criticized roundly