a frank explanation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a frank explanation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to describe an explanation that is honest, straightforward, and candid. Example: "During the meeting, she provided a frank explanation of the project's challenges and the steps needed to overcome them."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

On another train, a conductor wending his way from one unair-conditioned car to the next offered passengers a simple, frank explanation for their discomfort: "These cars are dying, folks!" One conductor, who declined to be identified because he said Metro-North prohibited public comments by employees, explained that he and other workers empathized with passengers.

The New York Times

In an unusually frank explanation of the challenges facing US policies in the region, the official gave a rundown of Washington's position on a number of key countries.

BBC

Sometimes this will encourage a fresh angle to the case, sometimes there will be no new avenues, but there should always be a full and frank explanation of the steps taken to bring an offender to justice and the rationale for police decisions.

The Guardian

We need a full and frank explanation from the organisation about how and why this is a good use of taxpayers cash.

The Guardian

Labor's campaign spokeswoman, Penny Wong, is pushing for "a full and frank explanation of his involvement".

The Guardian

But without the CIA giving a full and frank explanation of their presence in the city, those answers may be hard to find.

The Guardian

"The immigration minister must provide a full and frank explanation of how this breach occurred and what will be done to protect the people involved".

The Guardian

Alasdair Allan, the MSP for the Western Isles, said the Guardian's disclosures made it imperative that the Norgroves were given a full and frank explanation of what happened.

The Guardian

It would have been nice if Smith had offered a full and frank explanation, reminding Corbyn that he had only been on the leadership ballot last time around because many MPs had failed to understand that new leadership rules compelled them to nominate only those they would genuinely wish to serve under.

The Guardian - Opinion

Shadow Treasury minister Chris Leslie called for a "full and frank" explanation of what Lord Green knew while he was in charge at HSBC.

BBC

Hollywood was as surprised by the delay — especially since it seemed to push around a power player like Mr. Scorsese — as it was by Paramount's frank explanation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a frank explanation" when you want to emphasize the honesty and directness of the information being provided. This phrase is suitable for situations where transparency is valued.

Common error

While "frank" implies honesty, avoid overuse in overly formal settings where it might sound too informal or blunt. Consider alternatives like "candid", "direct", or "forthright" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a frank explanation" functions as a noun phrase, where "frank" modifies the noun "explanation". While Ludwig provides some context on related uses of "frank explanation", there are no exact matches, indicating lower frequency.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a frank explanation" denotes an honest and direct account of something. Ludwig did not find any exact matches for the phrase, indicating its usage might be less frequent than alternatives. While grammatically correct and understandable, its absence in the provided data suggests considering context-specific synonyms to enhance clarity and impact. Based on the nature of phrase, you might find it suitable across various writing contexts where transparency is valued.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an honest account

Emphasizes the truthfulness and sincerity of the explanation.

a candid disclosure

Highlights the openness and lack of reservation in the explanation.

a straightforward clarification

Focuses on the simplicity and directness of the explanation, avoiding ambiguity.

a transparent justification

Stresses the visibility and lack of hidden information in the explanation.

a plainspoken description

Underscores the use of simple and direct language in the explanation.

an unvarnished portrayal

Suggests the explanation is presented without embellishment or sugarcoating.

a direct rationale

Emphasizes the clear and unambiguous reasoning behind something.

a truthful representation

Focuses on the accuracy and faithfulness of the explanation to the facts.

a sincere exposition

Highlights the genuineness and heartfelt nature of the explanation.

an openhearted communication

Stresses the willingness to share information freely and honestly.

FAQs

How can I use "a frank explanation" in a sentence?

You can use "a frank explanation" to describe an honest and straightforward account of something. For example, "The manager provided "a frank explanation" of the company's financial difficulties".

What are some alternatives to "a frank explanation"?

Alternatives include "an honest account", "a candid disclosure", or "a straightforward clarification", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a frank explanation" suitable for formal writing?

While "a frank explanation" is generally acceptable, consider the formality of your context. In highly formal settings, alternatives like "a candid disclosure" or "a forthright account" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "a frank explanation" and "a detailed explanation"?

"A frank explanation" emphasizes honesty and directness, while "a detailed explanation" focuses on the completeness and thoroughness of the information provided. You can have both: "a frank and detailed explanation" combines both qualities.