Definition

1. 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.

2. 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

1. 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

1. 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