but candidly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but candidly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a statement that is honest or straightforward, often following a contrasting idea. Example: "I appreciate your efforts, but candidly, I think we need to make some significant changes to the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Ida is a drama that obliquely but candidly addresses the issues of Polish catholicism, antisemitism, the church and the state.

The Guardian - Film

Hearing New York police officers speak publicly but candidly about one another and the people they police is rare indeed, especially with their names attached.

The New York Times

He spoke of trying to preserve health care, but candidly told a health care advocate, "I'm not sure you should relax".

The New York Times

The inner struggles occupied many a West Virginia Mason and led to the creation of a Web site called Masonic Crusade, in which "brethren" anonymously but candidly vented their feelings.

The New York Times

President Obama's budget proposal, which includes $4 billion for computer science education, is a welcome step, but, candidly, we need a national strategy to solve the fundamental challenge.

TechCrunch

But candidly, she always frightened me.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Not only did Jonze answer whose head he would want a portal inside of a la Being John Malkovich (the answer is surprising, but on point), but he candidly chatted about his favorite obscure movies, what he thinks will happen after death, and why watching Joaquin Phoenix on Letterman proved that he would be the perfect lead in his recent feature.

Vice

But he candidly acknowledged that his, and her, complicated marital résumés might be liabilities among some Republican voters.

The New York Times

John Moses, the Mariners' first base coach, said the infield was "pretty damp" the first three or four innings, but added candidly, "Ichiro would have been out anyway.

The New York Times - Sports

"But quite candidly, for FedEx, the potential for e-commerce in the region as a whole is still a number of years away".

The New York Times

But "speaking candidly," he added, "in the past, associates were a little oblivious" in presuming that if they "simply showed up every day and didn't offend anyone, they were there indefinitely.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but candidly" to introduce a contrasting point with a tone of honesty and forthrightness. It's best suited when you want to gently correct a misconception or provide a more realistic perspective.

Common error

Avoid using "but candidly" in highly formal writing where a more professional tone is required. Alternatives like "however" or "nevertheless" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but candidly" serves as a conjunctive adverbial phrase. It connects two clauses or sentences, indicating a contrast while emphasizing that the speaker is being honest and straightforward. As Ludwig AI shows, it's often used to introduce a more realistic or critical perspective following a previous statement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but candidly" is a useful phrase to signal a shift to a more honest or straightforward perspective. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used. It functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase, primarily appearing in news and media contexts. While effective in many situations, be mindful of the tone you wish to convey and consider the formality of the setting. Alternatives like "but frankly" or "but honestly" can provide similar nuances. When used judiciously, "but candidly" adds a touch of sincerity and directness to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but frankly

Similar to "but candidly" but with a slightly stronger emphasis on directness and potential bluntness.

but honestly

Emphasizes sincerity and truthfulness in the statement that follows.

but to be honest

A more explicit declaration of honesty, often used to preface a potentially critical or unpopular opinion.

but truthfully

Highlights the accuracy and factual nature of the statement.

however, in truth

Introduces a contrasting viewpoint while emphasizing the actual reality of the situation.

yet realistically

Acknowledges a previous point but then shifts to a more practical or realistic perspective.

but in all sincerity

Adds a strong element of genuine feeling and earnestness.

but in reality

Contrasts a previous assumption or expectation with the actual facts.

but let's be frank

A more assertive way of introducing a candid statement, inviting a direct and honest conversation.

but to put it bluntly

Signals that the following statement will be direct and possibly harsh.

FAQs

How can I use "but candidly" in a sentence?

"But candidly" is typically used to introduce a frank or honest statement that contrasts with what was previously said. For example, "I appreciate your effort, "but candidly", the results are not satisfactory."

What phrases are similar to "but candidly"?

Similar phrases include "but frankly", "but honestly", and "to be honest". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "but candidly"?

While generally acceptable, consider your audience and the context. In very formal or sensitive situations, a more diplomatic phrasing might be preferable. Alternatives such as "however" or "nevertheless" can provide a similar contrast without the directness of "but candidly".

What's the difference between "but candidly" and "but frankly"?

Both phrases introduce a direct statement, but "but frankly" can sometimes sound more blunt or even harsh than "but candidly". "But candidly" implies a more thoughtful and considered honesty.