candid answer

USAGE SUMMARY

"candid answer" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a response or reply that is honest, direct, and straightforward. Example: When asked about his controversial decision, the politician gave a candid answer, admitting that it was a difficult choice but one that he believed was necessary for the greater good.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

In the end, though, Mr. Stewart gave a candid answer.

The New York Times

I asked Tan about the commercial constraints on his work, and he gave a very candid answer: "It is inescapable.

The New York Times - Magazine

Although North Korea's motivations for its actions are often opaque, Mr. Sin gave one remarkably candid answer when asked about the potential fallout from Security Council condemnation.

The New York Times

Perhaps a more candid answer from the chaps at Golf Digest would have been something along the lines that all they are doing is trying to sell magazines.

The Guardian - Sport

The New Yorker, June 8 , 1929P. 11 Lady trying on a hat in Lord and Taylor's asks a stranger's opinion and gets a candid answer.

The New Yorker

My caveat for any recipe is: "Is this the most delicious version of this you've ever eaten?" And I can rely on Em for a candid answer.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Asked why she had not smiled earlier, Davies gave one of her typically candid answers.

The New York Times - Sports

"In my experience, he didn't initiate leaks, but he gave candid answers to honest questions".

The New Yorker

Kevin Sullivan, who runs a strategic communications company, said that Woods should take questions because the appetite for unscripted, candid answers was unlikely to be satisfied by a statement.

The New York Times

(Like some of the doctors I spoke with, he was concerned that candid answers would damage his standing in the medical community and reduce patient referrals).

The New Yorker

Mr. Assange's grand accomplishment will be nothing more than to make it far harder for American diplomats to get candid answers from their Gulf Arab and Israeli counterparts.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "candid answer" when you want to emphasize that a response is not only truthful but also possibly revealing or surprisingly honest.

Common error

While "candid answer" is generally acceptable, be mindful of the setting. In highly formal or sensitive situations, consider alternatives like "honest response" or "forthright reply" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "candid answer" functions as a noun phrase where "candid" modifies the noun "answer". It describes the quality of the answer, emphasizing its honesty and directness. As Ludwig AI states, it signifies an honest, direct, and straightforward response.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

25%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "candid answer" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a response that is honest, direct, and straightforward. According to Ludwig AI, it’s a usable term in written English and can add emphasis on the sincerity of the response. The phrase sees frequent use in news and media, as well as academic circles. When striving for utmost formality or dealing with sensitive topics, alternatives like "honest response" or "forthright reply" may be preferable, although in most contexts the expression "candid answer" is perfectly appropriate. As such, it is a valuable tool for writers looking to convey transparency and sincerity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

honest response

Emphasizes the truthfulness of the reply.

truthful response

Focuses on the accuracy and honesty of the given information.

direct response

Highlights the immediate and unambiguous nature of the answer.

frank reply

Highlights the straightforward and unreserved nature of the response.

straight answer

Indicates a clear and uncomplicated response.

sincere answer

Highlights the genuineness and heartfelt nature of the answer.

forthright answer

Stresses the directness and lack of evasion in the response.

genuine reply

Focuses on the authenticity and lack of pretense in the response.

unvarnished truth

Highlights the absence of embellishment or deception.

open admission

Emphasizes the willingness to reveal something frankly.

FAQs

How can I use "candid answer" in a sentence?

You can use "candid answer" to describe someone's honest and straightforward response to a question. For example, "The politician gave a "candid answer" about his financial dealings."

What's a less formal alternative to "candid answer"?

In less formal settings, you might use "straight answer" or "honest response" instead of "candid answer."

Is there a difference between "candid answer" and "honest answer"?

While similar, "candid answer" often implies a greater degree of openness or revealing of information than "honest answer", which simply means truthful.

When is it appropriate to use "candid answer"?

"Candid answer" is appropriate when you want to highlight the sincerity and lack of reservation in a response, particularly if the person could have avoided the question or given a less revealing "response".