a candid question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a candid question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to ask a straightforward or honest question, often implying that the question may be sensitive or direct. Example: "I have a candid question for you: do you think our project is on track for success?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The question posed by ABC's George Stefanopolous "is not whether elites should rule, but which elite should rule?" It's a candid question that reflects the disillusioned reality of the looming American election.

Huffington Post

Appearing on "The Late Show" Monday, the freshman lawmaker was asked a candid question about the shutdown by Stephen Colbert. "What the heck is that like?" Ocasio-Cortez noted that there have been some headaches as newly elected lawmakers such as herself haven't been able to situate themselves.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Ruby Matthews told her followers all about her unhealthy lifestyle, which consisted of cocaine and cigarettes, in a candid question-and-answer session on Instagram Tuesday. .

Huffington Post

To take off the veil, as some women have done, is to ask the candid question of what it means to be a Muslim woman today.

The New York Times

This candid question, presented to the presidential hopefuls, is off the beat-and path of the questions posed in the two previous debates.

Huffington Post

What candid questions will be raised?

Science Magazine

Answers to the "candid" questions you're asked by prospective peers often make it back to the hiring manager.

Science Magazine

Ask them candid questions about their happiness quotients: Are they fulfilled?

Huffington Post

WSB and the Georgetown official responsible for the event discussed the desire to have candid questions and discussions for the students and other attendees and the Georgetown official reiterated that the speech would remain off the record".

Huffington Post

"Why put on a shift," he asked before the game, "if you're not going to pitch to him?" "You don't," Houston Manager Larry Dierker said, acknowledging it as a fair question, then providing a candid answer.

The New York Times - Sports

Weller gave evidence that he did not volunteer information about his family when he spoke to the press to promote his records but was a candid person who would answer a question if asked.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a candid question" when you want to emphasize that the question is honest and direct, even if it might be sensitive or uncomfortable for the person being asked.

Common error

Avoid using "a candid question" when you simply mean a question that doesn't have a clear answer. "Candid" refers to the honesty and directness of the question itself, not the openness of the possible answers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a candid question" functions as a noun phrase where "candid" modifies the noun "question". Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is used to describe the nature of the question being asked.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Science & Research

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a candid question" is a phrase used to describe a question that is direct, honest, and potentially sensitive. Ludwig AI validates that the phrase is grammatically correct and its primary usage is in News & Media. While the phrase is relatively rare, as supported by the limited examples, it effectively conveys a sense of forthrightness and expectation of honesty. When using this phrase, be mindful of the context and ensure it aligns with the desired level of formality and the potential impact on the listener.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a frank question

Replaces "candid" with "frank", emphasizing honesty and directness.

a forthright question

Uses "forthright" to convey honesty and directness.

a straightforward question

Replaces "candid" with "straightforward", focusing on clarity and simplicity.

a plainspoken question

Replaces "candid" with "plainspoken", emphasizing clarity and lack of embellishment.

an honest inquiry

Shifts from "question" to "inquiry", highlighting the search for truthfulness.

a direct question

Replaces "candid" with "direct", emphasizing the lack of ambiguity.

a genuine question

Emphasizes the authenticity and lack of ulterior motives behind the question.

a blunt question

Replaces "candid" with "blunt", suggesting a lack of tact or diplomacy.

an open question

Shifts the focus to the lack of a predetermined answer, rather than the manner of questioning.

a sincere inquiry

Focuses on the genuine intention behind the question.

FAQs

What does "a candid question" mean?

The phrase "a candid question" refers to a question that is honest, direct, and straightforward, often implying that it may be sensitive or probe into personal matters.

What can I say instead of "a candid question"?

You can use alternatives like "a frank question", "a straightforward question", or "an honest inquiry" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to ask "a candid question"?

While honesty is valued, it's essential to consider the context and relationship with the person you are addressing. "A candid question" may not be appropriate in all situations, especially if it could cause offense or discomfort. Consider whether a more tactful approach might be better.

How does "a candid question" differ from "a simple question"?

"A simple question" implies ease of understanding or answering, whereas "a candid question" emphasizes the honesty and directness of the inquiry, regardless of its complexity. A simple question can still be asked with honesty and forthrightness, so if you want to underline the characteristic of being sincere and straightforward rather than just easy to understand/answer you might prefer using "a candid question".