frank conversation

USAGE SUMMARY

"frank conversation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an honest and open discussion between two or more people. For example, "John and Mary had a frank conversation about their future together."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a supportive but frank conversation.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Have a frank conversation with your physician about recommended treatments.

The New York Times - Health

Moving on, can we have a frank conversation about prostitution?

The New York Times

He and his sworn political enemy eventually share frank conversation and far too much wine.

The New York Times - Arts

She longed for intelligent and frank conversation, which mostly only her brother provided.

The New York Times - Books

"We had a very frank conversation," John Boehner said in a press conference following the meeting.

The New Yorker

Preventing suicide among veterans requires a frank conversation about discrimination, harassment and assault.

The New York Times

"I thought it was a very respectful and frank conversation," a senior Clinton campaign official said.

The Washington Post

During his frank conversation with the ambassador, Firtash launched an attack on Tymoshenko.

The Guardian

If that isn't fruitful, launch a frank conversation about the dysfunction in your interactions.

Harvard Business Review

It includes drug and alcohol use and much frank conversation about sex.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "frank conversation" when you want to emphasize honesty and openness in a discussion, especially when addressing sensitive or challenging topics.

Common error

Avoid softening the impact of a "frank conversation" with excessive euphemisms, which can undermine the intended message of honesty and directness. Ensure clarity and sincerity are maintained.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "frank conversation" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb (e.g., "have a frank conversation") or as a subject complement. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "frank conversation" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to describe an open and honest exchange. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It is employed across various contexts, most frequently in news and media, but also in formal business and even wiki environments. While the phrase itself is neutral, it suggests a direct and sincere approach to communication. Alternatives such as "honest conversation" or "candid discussion" offer similar meanings. Remember to use the phrase judiciously, ensuring that your communication remains clear and respectful.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sincere conversation

Emphasizes the genuine and heartfelt nature of the exchange.

forthright conversation

Highlights the direct and unambiguous quality of the discussion.

honest conversation

Stresses the truthfulness and lack of deception in the exchange.

candid conversation

Suggests an open and unreserved exchange of views.

genuine conversation

Emphasizes the authenticity and realness of the discussion.

straightforward conversation

Highlights the clear and uncomplicated nature of the dialogue.

open discussion

Focuses on the receptive and inclusive atmosphere of the talk.

direct exchange

Highlights the explicit and immediate nature of the communication.

unreserved discussion

Emphasizes the absence of hesitation or limitations in the conversation.

heartfelt exchange

Emphasizes the emotional and sincere aspect of the conversation.

FAQs

How can I use "frank conversation" in a sentence?

You can use "frank conversation" to describe an open and honest discussion. For example: "We need to have a "frank conversation" about our budget."

What's a good alternative to "frank conversation"?

Alternatives include "honest conversation", "candid discussion", or "straightforward talk", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to have a "frank conversation"?

A "frank conversation" is appropriate when addressing important issues that require honesty and openness, such as resolving conflicts, setting expectations, or providing constructive feedback.

Is "frank conversation" formal or informal?

"Frank conversation" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal settings, although the context should always be considered to ensure appropriateness.