plain-spoken
Adjective:
- Direct and honest in speech: "plain-spoken" describes someone who expresses their thoughts or opinions in a straightforward, clear manner without evasion or subtlety. It implies a lack of pretense or diplomacy, often associated with frankness or bluntness.
- (He speaks directly and honestly, without trying to soften his words.)
- (She expressed her negative opinion clearly and without hesitation.)
- (He communicated in a simple, direct way that was easy to understand.)
"plain-spoken honesty": a quality of being transparent and sincere in communication, often valued in personal relationships or leadership.
- The coach’s plain-spoken honesty earned him the respect of his players. (His direct and truthful manner made him trustworthy.)
"plain-spoken advice": guidance given without embellishment or sugar-coating.
- She gave her friend plain-spoken advice about the risky investment. (She warned him clearly and directly, without softening the warning.)
Plain-spokenness (noun): the quality of being direct and honest in speech.
- His plain-spokenness sometimes offends people, but it is never meant to be cruel. (His tendency to speak bluntly.)
Outspoken (adj): similar in meaning, but often implies a willingness to speak out on controversial issues.
- She is an outspoken advocate for human rights. (She speaks boldly and publicly about important matters.)
- Frank: open, honest, and direct in speech.
- Blunt: saying exactly what one thinks without trying to be polite.
- Candid: truthful and straightforward, even if the truth is uncomfortable.
Call a spade a spade: to speak plainly and directly about something, without using euphemisms.
- He always calls a spade a spade, so you know exactly where you stand with him. (He is plain-spoken and does not avoid the truth.)
Say it like it is: to express the truth without softening or hiding it.
- She says it like it is, even when it’s hard to hear. (She is plain-spoken and honest.)