candid opinion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "candid opinion" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It means an honest and straightforward opinion. You can use it in any situation where you want to express your opinion without sugar-coating or hiding your true thoughts. Example: "I appreciate your candid opinion on the matter. It helps me understand your perspective better."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

"It became apparent to us pretty early on that what our visitors wanted was the truly candid opinion from people who are like them," he said.

The New York Times

In her personal and candid opinion, Sotomayor suggested that refusal to recognize the reality of race only reinforces the discrimination that continues to afflict American life.

The New Yorker

Sometimes interviewers ask departing employees how their colleagues feel about their work, because someone who's reluctant to offer a candid opinion might be comfortable ascribing his or her feelings to coworkers.

Harvard Business Review

Kelly also called some Republican senators Tuesday, according to several people familiar with his conversations, and did what one person described as "damage control". Some of these people said Kelly urged lawmakers to share their candid opinion about Trump's Helsinki performance, believing that hearing criticism from trusted allies might help the president understand the magnitude of his blunder.

The Washington Post

"If it looks like Jared has gone wobbly on his commitment to climate and is succumbing to some of the baser instincts, that would be a serious problem for his relationship with American CEOs and these Silicon Valley titans," said the operative, speaking on the condition on anonymity to share a candid opinion.

The Washington Post

"It's amazing how Rob Porter taking Hope Hicks out on a date and getting a picture taken in that British paper led to so many unintended consequences," said a Republican strategist in frequent touch with the White House, speaking anonymously to share a candid opinion.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

These sketches, often obscene and vulgar, reveal his most candid opinions of those in power.

Encyclopedia Britannica

User reviews on Yelp provide candid opinions of local restaurants and shops.

Princeton University

It also relies on anonymity, so reviewers can give candid opinions.

The Guardian

John believed in rendering candid opinions and his ability to analyze complex financial issues was prized by all.

The New York Times

Still, it's a pleasure just to be in Kinsey's company as she refreshes the formula conventions with her snappy wit and candid opinions.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When seeking feedback, specifically ask for a "candid opinion" to encourage honesty and avoid sugar-coating.

Common error

Recognize that not all situations call for a "candid opinion". Sometimes, tact and sensitivity are more important than blunt honesty. Gauge your audience and the potential impact of your words before offering a "candid opinion".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "candid opinion" functions as a descriptor highlighting the nature of the opinion being expressed. It is used to emphasize the honesty and directness of the viewpoint. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "candid opinion" is a straightforward way to describe an honest and direct viewpoint. As Ludwig AI points out, it's grammatically correct and commonly used. While the term itself is fairly neutral, being mindful of your audience is paramount, as offering a "candid opinion" isn't always the most appropriate course of action. Related phrases include "honest assessment" and "frank view", offering similar but slightly nuanced alternatives. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, "candid opinion" serves to emphasize the sincerity and lack of reservation in expressing one's thoughts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

honest assessment

Focuses on the truthfulness and accuracy of the evaluation.

frank view

Emphasizes the openness and lack of hesitation in sharing the perspective.

forthright perspective

Highlights the direct and unambiguous nature of the viewpoint.

unvarnished truth

Stresses the absence of embellishment or softening of the reality.

straightforward feedback

Highlights the clarity and simplicity of the response.

direct commentary

Focuses on the immediate and unmediated nature of the remarks.

open viewpoint

Emphasizes the accessibility and lack of hidden agenda in the perspective.

sincere belief

Highlights the genuineness and deeply felt nature of the conviction.

truthful evaluation

Focuses on the factual accuracy and unbiased nature of the assessment.

genuine sentiment

Stresses the authenticity and heartfelt nature of the feeling expressed.

FAQs

What does "candid opinion" mean?

A "candid opinion" is an honest and straightforward view, expressed without reservation or sugar-coating. It implies a sincere and truthful assessment, even if it might be unpopular or critical.

When is it appropriate to ask for a "candid opinion"?

It's appropriate when you genuinely want honest feedback and are prepared to hear potentially critical assessments. It's particularly useful when seeking ways to improve or understand different perspectives.

What are some alternatives to "candid opinion"?

You can use alternatives like "honest assessment", "frank view", or "forthright perspective" depending on the context.

How does a "candid opinion" differ from a regular opinion?

While all opinions are personal views, a "candid opinion" emphasizes honesty and directness. It suggests a willingness to express one's true thoughts without concern for potential negative reactions or consequences, whereas other options might be formulated with sensitivity in mind.