forthright
/'fɔ:θrait/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective:
- Direct and honest in manner or speech: Describes a person, statement, or approach that is straightforward, frank, and without any attempt to be evasive or subtle.
- Decisive and resolute: Can imply a firm, determined, or unequivocal quality in expression or action.
Adverb (Archaic/Less Common):
- Directly and without hesitation or deviation: In a straightforward manner; immediately and in a straight line.
Usage Examples
Adjective:
- She is known for her forthright opinions on company policy.
- The manager appreciated the forthright feedback from the team.
- His forthright manner sometimes surprises people who expect more diplomacy.
Adverb:
- (Archaic) He went forthright to the castle gates.
Advanced Usage
- "To be forthright with someone": To speak openly and honestly to someone.
- I must be forthright with you: the project is behind schedule.
- Used to describe communication that is valued for its clarity and honesty, even if it is blunt.
- In a crisis, forthright leadership is essential.
Variants and Related Words
- Forthrightly (adverb): In a forthright manner.
- She answered the question forthrightly.
- Forthrightness (noun): The quality of being forthright.
- His forthrightness is both a strength and a weakness.
Synonyms
- Frank: Open and honest in expression.
- Candid: Truthful and straightforward, especially when it might be unwelcome.
- Blunt: Very direct, sometimes to the point of rudeness.
- Direct: Straightforward and without circumlocution.
- Straightforward: Uncomplicated and honest.
Antonyms
- Evasive: Tending to avoid giving direct answers.
- Devious: Not straightforward; underhanded.
- Tactful: Careful not to offend, sometimes implying indirectness.
- Circumlocutory: Using many words where fewer would do; indirect.
Related Idioms and Phrases
- To speak forthrightly: To speak in a direct and honest manner.
- The witness was asked to speak forthrightly about what she saw.
- Forthright approach: A direct method of dealing with something.
- The committee took a forthright approach to solving the budget issue.
Adjective
- characterized by directness in manner or speech; without subtlety or evasion
- blunt talking and straight shooting
- a blunt New England farmer
- I gave them my candid opinion
- forthright criticism
- a forthright approach to the problem
- tell me what you think--and you may just as well be frank
- it is possible to be outspoken without being rude
- plainspoken and to the point
- a point-blank accusation
Adverb
- directly and without evasion; not roundabout
- to face a problem squarely
- the responsibility lies squarely with them
- spoke forthright (or forthrightly) and to the point