as forthright as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as forthright as" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare the directness or honesty of one thing to another. Example: "She was as forthright as her colleague when discussing the project's challenges."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

When pressed, he said, "I think that's as forthright as I can be right now".

The New York Times - Sports

He could not have survived if he had been as forthright as he is now".

The New York Times

Despite its Russian roots, the ballet captures the American spirit: as forthright as we seem, there are also secrets.

The New York Times - Arts

Visiting Davies at his Florida home last year, Buchholz found him as forthright as ever about the professional game.

The Guardian - Sport

"We're trying to be as forthright as we can and take the necessary precautions," Ms. Maghame said.

The New York Times

But it's a bit disappointing when a Democratic president is afraid to be as forthright as the outgoing Republican governor of California on a critical issue.

University of California, Berkeley

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

"He wasn't as forthright with me as other people I've interviewed".

The New York Times - Arts

Will he be as forthright and apologetic as Pettitte was last year in discussing his use of human growth hormone?

The New York Times - Sports

While Ms. Clark is as forthright and funny as ever, the work drifts too deeply into camp; it could have been harrowing.

The New York Times - Arts

Leonardo's positivist interpreters, Mr. Steinberg writes, felt that his creation "must be as forthright in meaning as his anatomical drawing or his didactic prose".

The New York Times - Books

He has been an extremely skilful, late-developing bowler, especially effective in England where the ball can keep swinging, as well as forthright and capable lower-order batsman.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing “as forthright as”, consider the tone you wish to convey. While directness is valued in many contexts, it may not always be appropriate, especially when delicacy is needed. Balance forthrightness with tact to maintain positive relationships and avoid unintended offense.

Common error

While "as forthright as" is generally acceptable, overuse in informal settings can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for simpler language like "as direct as" or "as honest as" in casual conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as forthright as" functions primarily as a comparative adjective phrase, used to describe the degree of directness or honesty in a subject by comparing it to another. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as forthright as" is a common and grammatically correct comparative expression used to describe the degree of directness or honesty. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for comparing two subjects in terms of their clarity and lack of evasion in communication. While versatile, "as forthright as" is most frequently found in News & Media contexts, with a neutral register that allows for use in both formal and informal settings. When aiming for variety, consider alternative phrases such as "as candid as" or "as direct as", while being mindful of the specific nuances each conveys.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as candid as

Focuses on honesty and openness in expression rather than just directness.

as direct as

Emphasizes a lack of ambiguity or indirectness in communication.

as frank as

Highlights sincerity and straightforwardness, potentially implying a boldness in speech.

as straightforward as

Highlights clarity and simplicity in communication, avoiding complexity or evasion.

as outspoken as

Implies a willingness to express opinions freely and assertively.

as explicit as

Emphasizes that something is clearly and fully expressed, leaving no room for doubt.

as clear as

Focuses on the ease with which something can be understood, implying a lack of ambiguity.

as blunt as

Suggests a lack of tact or diplomacy, focusing on the directness even if it's harsh.

as unambiguous as

Stresses the absence of multiple interpretations, ensuring a single, clear meaning.

as forthcoming as

Implies a willingness to provide information or assistance readily and openly.

FAQs

How can I use "as forthright as" in a sentence?

You can use "as forthright as" to compare the directness or honesty of two different things. For example, "His statement was "as forthright as" hers, leaving no room for ambiguity".

What are some alternatives to "as forthright as"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "as candid as", "as direct as", or "as frank as" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it always appropriate to be "as forthright as" possible?

While forthrightness is often valued, there are situations where tact and diplomacy are more appropriate. Consider the context and your audience before choosing to be "as forthright as" possible.

What is the difference between "as forthright as" and "as honest as"?

"As forthright as" emphasizes directness and clarity in communication, while "as honest as" highlights truthfulness and sincerity. While they can overlap, forthrightness focuses on the manner of speaking, while honesty focuses on the content.