a frank one

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a frank one" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a statement or opinion that is open, honest, and straightforward. Example: "Her response to the question was a frank one, leaving no room for misinterpretation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

The Guardian - Books

The New Yorker

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Certainly his assessment of the match in Molde was a frank one.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

This complex, often uncomfortable, book contains among its pages some of the most exhilarating writing about theatre ever committed to paper, a beady and original analysis of Britain (and incidentally British theatre) in the 50s and 60s, a profound account of the evolution of modern Australia, and a darkly frank one of the inner life of its author.

The Guardian - Books

Thank you, well most of you, for the interest in my views on what is, to be frank, one of the great non-stories of our time.

The Guardian

That irony aside, let's be frank on one point: the day a New Yorker -- or anyone else -- needs behavioral advice or etiquette lessons from a Philadelphia sports fan will be the day Flyers fans outgrow their lust for drunken fisticuffs, a Phillies game is sold out, and Eagles fans stop micturating at their upper-deck seats and calling it "lovable".

The New York Times

Could it be that such a frank story — even one not based on real facts �� contains some element of truth, which, like a lie, has been created for art?

The New Yorker

We can have conversations, frank ones, about our work.

The Guardian

Experience has made the irritatingly upbeat ones easier to shrug off; the depressingly frank ones less scary.

The New York Times

Ms. Voigt also helped create and performed a frank and poignant one-woman autobiographical show there.

The New York Times - Arts

"Our instrument does not carry legal liability like Dodd-Frank," one EU official said, "but member states would have to nominate competent authorities to receive information and perform checks and audits [within the scheme] under the rules of the OECD process".

The Guardian

A frank, sweet snapshot of one woman's life and art and where they intersect, Tig is a testament to grace and good humor in the ugliest of circumstances.

Huffington Post

A previous time, not too long ago, but certainly the past, where gay was something that needed a frank and formal explanation, in a one-on-one interview with hard-backed chairs.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a frank one" when you want to emphasize the directness and honesty of a statement or opinion, especially when contrasting it with something less forthright. Consider if the context requires a more nuanced or diplomatic approach.

Common error

While "a frank one" emphasizes honesty, overuse can make your writing seem blunt or insensitive. In formal contexts, consider alternatives like "an honest assessment" or "a candid opinion" for a more balanced tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a frank one" typically functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun that represents a statement, opinion, or assessment. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase indicates directness and honesty. Example: "Certainly his assessment of the match in Molde was a frank one."

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a frank one" is a phrase used to emphasize the honesty and directness of a statement or opinion. As noted by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct but infrequent. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts and implies a neutral register, suitable for professional or serious discussions. When using the phrase, consider the context and ensure that the level of directness is appropriate for your audience. Alternatives like "an honest assessment" or "a candid opinion" may be more suitable in certain situations. Remember to avoid overusing "a frank one", particularly in formal writing, as it can come across as blunt.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an honest assessment

Emphasizes the truthfulness and integrity of the evaluation.

a candid opinion

Highlights the straightforward and unreserved nature of the viewpoint.

a straightforward account

Focuses on the clarity and simplicity of the narrative.

a blunt statement

Suggests a directness that may come across as forceful or insensitive.

a forthright declaration

Implies a bold and confident expression of one's views.

an open disclosure

Highlights the willingness to reveal information transparently.

an unvarnished truth

Emphasizes the absence of embellishment or distortion in the presented facts.

a sincere perspective

Focuses on the genuine and heartfelt nature of the viewpoint.

a transparent explanation

Highlights the clarity and lack of hidden agendas in the account.

a direct response

Emphasizes the immediacy and lack of evasion in the answer.

FAQs

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

Use "a frank one" when you want to describe something – typically a statement, assessment, or opinion – as being honest, direct, and without pretense. For instance, "His response to the criticism was "a frank one", acknowledging his mistakes without making excuses."

What are some alternatives to "a frank one"?

Alternatives include "an honest one", "a candid one", or "a straightforward one". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. "Honest" emphasizes truthfulness, "candid" suggests openness, and "straightforward" highlights clarity.

Is it always appropriate to use "a frank one"?

While honesty is generally valued, "a frank one" might not be suitable in situations where diplomacy or sensitivity is required. Consider your audience and the potential impact of your words before using the phrase. Sometimes, a more tactful approach is necessary.

What's the difference between "a frank one" and "an honest one"?

"Frank" suggests a directness and openness that may sometimes border on bluntness, while "honest" primarily emphasizes truthfulness and integrity. Using "a frank one" implies not only that something is true, but also that it's expressed without hesitation or reservation, which might not always be appropriate. "An honest one" is therefore safer if there is concern about the impact of the statement.