absolutely candid

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "absolutely candid" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to emphasize complete honesty or openness in someone's communication or expression. Example: "During the meeting, she was absolutely candid about the challenges the team was facing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

To be absolutely candid, I probably never would have had the courage to take this step had I not sort of been gently shown the door.

The New York Times

The person presenting their memoir was obliged to be absolutely candid, while the people doing the listening were instructed to extend an equal openness: "No one has the right to be shocked or aggrieved by what is said".

The Guardian - Books

He impresses as being absolutely candid about himself -- his pettinesses and his meannesses are as much the staple of this splendid book as are his brief moments of glory.

The New York Times

They include the nondisclosure of important material information — for instance, if an employee failed to be absolutely candid about the size and risk of trading positions taken on the company's behalf.

The New York Times

In an interview with Haaretz, Finkelstein stated "I did my best to provide absolutely candid and comprehensive answers to all the questions put to me.

Wikipedia

But, to be absolutely candid, we will help our friends first". He added: "The President will be committed to maintaining a Republican Senate in '86, and he has always campaigned--when he is able--for all Republicans.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

I have been absolutely clear and candid in condemning all acts of terrorism and vigilantism like this one, and I reiterate that Islam stands strongly against extremism of all kinds.

HuffPost

"Nothing is off the table, and your questions can absolutely be frank and candid," Assafiri says.

The Guardian

Their advice is candid, often witty, and absolutely dead on.

Science Magazine

In a highly publicized interview last year on "Meet the Press", he pre-empted Obama's announcement of support for gay marriage with a candid remark that he was "absolutely comfortable" with equal rights for homosexual couples.

Huffington Post

Anonymity is a useful way to get people to respond to surveys in a candid way––provide this option unless it's absolutely essential to get names.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "absolutely candid" when you want to strongly emphasize the honesty and openness of someone's statement or behavior. It adds a layer of intensity beyond simply saying 'candid'.

Common error

While "absolutely candid" isn't grammatically incorrect in informal settings, it can sound overly formal or dramatic. Consider using a more casual phrase like "totally honest" or "completely upfront" for everyday conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "absolutely candid" functions as an intensifier modifying an adjective. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a correct and usable phrase, emphasizing the degree of honesty or openness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

17%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "absolutely candid" is a grammatically correct phrase used to emphasize honesty and openness. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, it's more common in neutral to professional contexts like news and formal communications. For informal conversations, consider using alternatives like "totally honest". Be mindful of the context to ensure the phrase fits appropriately, avoiding overuse in casual settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely honest

Replaces 'candid' with 'honest', focusing on truthfulness.

totally frank

Substitutes 'candid' with 'frank', emphasizing directness and openness.

entirely truthful

Replaces both words, highlighting the completeness of the truth being told.

unreservedly honest

Adds emphasis to the lack of hesitation or reservation in expressing honesty.

perfectly straightforward

Shifts the focus to clarity and lack of ambiguity in communication.

with complete transparency

Highlights the openness and visibility of information.

without any pretense

Focuses on the absence of artificiality or deception.

in all sincerity

Emphasizes the genuineness and heartfelt nature of the communication.

in plain language

Highlights the clarity and simplicity of the message conveyed.

brutally honest

Suggests a level of honesty that might be perceived as harsh.

FAQs

How can I use "absolutely candid" in a sentence?

You can use "absolutely candid" to describe someone's honesty: "She was "absolutely candid" about her mistakes during the presentation".

What's a more informal alternative to "absolutely candid"?

For less formal situations, consider using phrases like "totally honest", "completely upfront", or "really frank".

Is it always appropriate to be "absolutely candid"?

While honesty is generally valued, being "absolutely candid" might not always be the best approach. Consider the context and potential impact on others. Sometimes, a more tactful approach is necessary.

What is the difference between "absolutely candid" and "brutally honest"?

"Absolutely candid" implies complete honesty without necessarily being harsh. "Brutally honest", on the other hand, suggests a level of honesty that might be perceived as unkind or insensitive. It may be better to be "perfectly straightforward".