blunt remark

USAGE SUMMARY

"blunt remark" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a statement, usually spoken, that is direct and to the point. Example: His blunt remark was not well-received by the crowd.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

It was a typically blunt remark, delivered between pauses and sighs.

The New York Times

Mr. Cain would later stand by a similarly blunt remark — that the Occupy Wall Street protesters are "jealous" — during an appearance on CBS's "Face the Nation" on Sunday.

The New York Times

What prompted Arthur's blunt remark was a violent and chaotic raid at Guantanamo's communal camp that had taken place 10 days earlier.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Obama surprised some in Kenya with his blunt remarks on gender equality and gay rights.

The Guardian

His 28-year-old wife, on the other hand, oscillated between tears and laughter interspersed with blunt remarks.

The New York Times

Now free to speak her mind, her blunt remarks and prescriptions were just what the central bankers needed to hear.

The New York Times

"This is not news for me," he said today of Mr. Putin's blunt remarks in Brussels.

The New York Times

Ms. Bair's blunt remarks have also drawn criticism, since the F.D.I.C.'s record is not pristine.

The New York Times

The United States ambassador in Cairo, Margaret Scobey, called on the government "to allow peaceful public demonstrations," and Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton reiterated that call in blunt remarks to reporters.

The New York Times

Mr. Leung's blunt remarks reflect a widely held view among the Hong Kong elite that the general public cannot be trusted to govern the city well.

The New York Times

Mr. Lott's public fall was followed by a series of blunt remarks befitting a man who felt he had little to lose.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "blunt remark", consider the audience and context. While directness can be valuable, ensure the remark doesn't cause unnecessary offense or damage relationships.

Common error

Avoid using "blunt remark" to describe statements that are simply rude or insensitive. A "blunt remark" should still convey some level of truth or necessary information, even if delivered directly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "blunt remark" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "blunt" modifies the noun "remark". It characterizes the nature of a statement as being direct and without pretense. Ludwig confirms that it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "blunt remark" describes a statement characterized by its directness and lack of tact. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While the phrase is most frequently found in News & Media, its appropriateness hinges on context and audience. Alternatives such as "outspoken remark" or "direct statement" offer subtle variations in meaning. It's crucial to use "blunt remark" judiciously, mindful of potential offense, to ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

outspoken remark

Replaces "blunt" with "outspoken", indicating a more public or assertive statement.

forthright comment

Similar to "outspoken", but with a slightly stronger connotation of directness.

direct statement

Replaces both words to emphasize clarity and lack of ambiguity.

plainspoken assertion

Highlights simplicity and clarity in the declaration.

candid observation

Suggests an honest and perhaps insightful, though possibly unwelcome, comment.

straightforward observation

Indicates a simple and uncomplicated viewpoint.

frank assessment

Implies a more formal and evaluative context where honesty is prioritized.

honest appraisal

Emphasizes the truthfulness of the statement, often in a judgment context.

unvarnished truth

Indicates a raw and unfiltered expression of reality.

unflinching declaration

Suggests a bold and resolute statement, regardless of consequences.

FAQs

What does "blunt remark" mean?

A "blunt remark" is a statement that is direct, forthright, and sometimes unceremonious. It expresses the truth or an opinion without trying to be polite or considerate of people's feelings.

How to use "blunt remark" in a sentence?

You can use "blunt remark" to describe someone's statement like, "Her "blunt remark" about the company's failures surprised everyone in the meeting."

What are some synonyms for "blunt remark"?

Alternatives to "blunt remark" include "outspoken remark", "direct statement", or "candid observation", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always appropriate to make a "blunt remark"?

No, making a "blunt remark" is not always appropriate. The appropriateness depends on the context, your relationship with the person you're speaking to, and the potential impact of your words. Sometimes, tact and diplomacy are more effective.