attack of honesty

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "attack of honesty" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sudden and overwhelming feeling of truthfulness or candor, often leading to unexpected revelations or admissions. Example: "During the meeting, I had an attack of honesty and admitted my mistakes in front of everyone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

I had an attack of honesty and I said no.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Fortunately, most of the 650 million people who board a domestic flight each year are not afflicted with such attacks of honesty, but they still manage to waste a lot of time.

The New York Times

"The statements were a continuation and elaboration of a yearslong campaign to falsely attack the honesty of the Sandy Hook parents, casting them as participants in a ghastly conspiracy and cover-up," the parents' lawsuits said.

The New York Times

[C2.] Closing Arguments Begin in Second Vioxx Case Closing arguments began in the second Vioxx-related personal injury lawsuit to reach trial, as a lawyer for Merck attacked the honesty of the plaintiff and said that Vioxx had not caused his heart attack.

The New York Times

RICHARD GRAYSON Apache Junction, Ariz., Aug. 8, 2012   Mr. Weinstein's letter lamenting the lack of honesty in politics misses one important point: Attack ads work, and as long as they work, they will be continued.

The New York Times

"The one thing I sensed in these reviews is there was a meanness in them that didn't smack of honesty," said Mr. Ruffalo, who believed he was attacked for being an actor audacious enough to direct.

The New York Times

The rules also give free reply time to candidates or anyone who is the subject of an attack based on "honesty, character, integrity or like personal qualities".

The New York Times

No, because they were born of honesty.

The New York Times - Magazine

Base this on a foundation of honesty.

Stanford University

Silence is the only form of honesty.

The New York Times

"We have that sense of honesty.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase sparingly for heightened impact, as it suggests an unusual and compelling circumstance, and ensure that the context genuinely warrants its use.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase casually to describe mundane honesty. The phrase implies a significant departure from usual behavior, and using it in trivial contexts diminishes its intended effect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "attack of honesty" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to a specific instance or experience characterized by a sudden urge to be honest. Ludwig AI indicates it's grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "attack of honesty" describes a sudden and unexpected urge to be truthful. While grammatically correct, Ludwig AI classifies it as a correct and usable phrase, but relatively rare. It's most often found in news, media, and academic contexts. When using it, consider alternatives like "burst of honesty" or "fit of candor" for variations. Avoid overusing the phrase in trivial situations to maintain its intended impact. It suggests an unusual and compelling circumstance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Burst of honesty

Suggests a sudden, forceful expression of truth, often implying a release of pent-up honesty.

Fit of candor

Implies a sudden and unrestrained honesty, potentially revealing more than intended.

Wave of truthfulness

Conveys a strong, pervasive sense of honesty that washes over someone.

Moment of frankness

Highlights a specific instance where someone is openly honest and direct.

Spree of openness

Indicates an extended period of honesty and transparency.

Sudden honesty

Emphasizes the unexpected nature of the truthful revelation.

Outbreak of veracity

A more formal and intense way to describe a sudden and unexpected display of truthfulness.

Uncharacteristic honesty

Highlights the deviation from one's usual behavior regarding honesty.

Impulse to confess

Focuses on the urge to reveal the truth, even if difficult.

Truthful revelation

Highlights the revealed nature of the truth coming out.

FAQs

What does the phrase "attack of honesty" mean?

The phrase "attack of honesty" describes a sudden, often unexpected, impulse to be truthful, even when it might be uncomfortable or disadvantageous. It implies a temporary state where the urge to be honest overwhelms the usual inclination to conceal or soften the truth.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "attack of honesty"?

It's appropriate when describing a situation where someone unexpectedly reveals a truth that they might normally keep hidden. This can occur during moments of intense emotion, introspection, or when feeling compelled to be completely transparent.

What are some alternative phrases for "attack of honesty"?

Alternatives include "burst of honesty", "fit of candor", or "wave of truthfulness". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "attack of honesty" a common expression in English?

While grammatically correct, "attack of honesty" is not a very common expression. It's more figurative than literal, so use it thoughtfully. More common expressions for general honesty include "being truthful" or "having integrity".