ask frankly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'ask frankly' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to suggest that a person should be direct and honest in questioning or conversing with someone. For example, "If you want to know what's really going on, then ask him frankly."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Of course a green paper is consultative and he is asking frankly for help and ideas.

The Guardian

But to ask you frankly to leave as you finish your main course is outrageous.

The New York Times

"I just felt I was really on something alive, which is all you can ask for, frankly," he said.

The New Yorker

Oppo: But Simon, I ask you, frankly, can a man be expected to understand the immigration rules?

The Guardian

I ask because, frankly, some people go to college so they can get a job, not because they love to learn, and college marketing plays into the employment expectation.

The New Yorker

I asked him, frankly incredulous, if he was saying that he had always intended to reinstate Chaudhry but had held off saying so until that moment.

The New York Times - Magazine

Seizing an opportunity, Cleaver approaches the speaker an entrepreneurial young advertising executive who operated his own subsidiary of advertising goliath, BBDO and asks him, frankly, for his advice.

Forbes

"We are trying different and creative models with different partners and exploring the best offering together that make sense for both parties," Chung replied when asked what Frankly was charging its SDK partners.

TechCrunch

Why not? "Because if I want some asshole in Oklahoma's opinion I'll go ask him, and, frankly, I don't.

The Guardian - Film

It looks like $1.5 million is a lot of money to ask for, but frankly, when you spread it across 67 counties, it's not".

Huffington Post

"Too scared to come to Croydon?" The Farage supporters could only respond with a weak volley of, "Why don't you ask him?" Which, frankly, was a stupid response, as he wasn't there.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ask frankly", ensure that the context supports a direct and honest approach. This phrase is best suited for situations where transparency and openness are valued and expected.

Common error

Avoid using "ask frankly" in contexts where tact and diplomacy are paramount. A more nuanced approach may be necessary when dealing with sensitive topics or individuals who may be easily offended by direct questioning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask frankly" primarily functions as a verb phrase where "ask" is the main verb and "frankly" is an adverb modifying it. This construction indicates the manner in which the asking is done, emphasizing directness and honesty. Although there aren't explicit examples in Ludwig, this type of construction is standard in English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ask frankly" is grammatically correct and aims to convey a direct and honest manner of questioning. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical validity. However, it's crucial to consider the context and audience when using this phrase, as directness may not always be appropriate. While the available data doesn't provide explicit examples, the phrase's structure aligns with standard English usage. Alternatives like "ask directly" or "ask honestly" might be more suitable in certain situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ask directly

Replaces "frankly" with a more straightforward adverb, emphasizing the directness of the inquiry.

ask honestly

Substitutes "frankly" with "honestly", highlighting the sincerity and truthfulness expected in the question.

ask candidly

Uses "candidly" in place of "frankly", suggesting an open and unreserved manner of questioning.

be frank in your inquiry

Transforms the phrase into a command, emphasizing the need for frankness in the questioning process.

seek an honest answer

Shifts the focus from the act of asking to the type of response desired, implying a need for frankness.

pose the question directly

Focuses on the act of questioning, emphasizing directness and clarity.

make a straightforward inquiry

Highlights the clarity and lack of ambiguity in the question being asked.

request an open response

Emphasizes the desire for an open and honest answer, similar to "ask frankly".

invite complete honesty

Changes the structure to an invitation for honesty, which implies the need of a frank response.

ask without reservation

Emphasizes the lack of hesitation or constraint in the way the question is asked.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "ask frankly" for different contexts?

Consider using alternatives such as "ask directly", "ask honestly", or "inquire candidly" to better suit the specific situation and audience.

What does it mean to "ask frankly"?

To "ask frankly" means to pose a question in a direct, honest, and straightforward manner, without hesitation or reservation. It implies a desire for a truthful and candid response.

Is it always appropriate to "ask frankly"?

No, it's not always appropriate. While directness is valuable, certain situations require tact and diplomacy. Consider the potential impact of your question and choose a phrasing that balances honesty with sensitivity.

What are some synonyms for "ask frankly"?

Synonyms include "ask directly", "ask candidly", "ask openly", and "be frank in your inquiry". The best choice depends on the specific context.