frank remarks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "frank remarks" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to comments or statements that are honest, direct, and straightforward, often without sugarcoating. Example: "During the meeting, she made some frank remarks about the project's shortcomings that sparked a productive discussion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

A List of some Frank Remarks by People of Position and Prestige.

The New Yorker

Those frank remarks were par for the course at the opening general session of the conference, which continues through Wednesday.

The New York Times

In unusually frank remarks, Ivan I. Demidov, a deputy minister of culture, described the ministry's sponsorship of the biennale as both an honor and a burden.

The New York Times - Arts

That was the first of several frank remarks for which Mr. Supachai, 56, has been reproached as someone who "shoots from the lip".

The New York Times

The frank remarks were included in a 67-page report by the BBC Trust which concluded overall that the BBC reflects a broad range of voices on immigration.

The Guardian

The frank remarks from Ms Leadsom, who worked for Barclays in the 1990s, will raise doubts about whether the larger parliamentary inquiry being set up to investigate the banking scandal will be able to uncover the whole truth.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

But Mr. Moi has scorned his independent-minded No. 2 and instead thrown his support behind Mr. Kenyatta, who the president has said -- in an surprisingly frank remark -- can be guided to make the right decisions for the country.

The New York Times

Dec. 4, 2006 To the Editor: It is stunning that a frank remark by the new senator from Virginia to the president about the war in Iraq is considered a breach of etiquette.

The New York Times

What stays with me is a recent frank remark by a long-time local painter who said these days he gets dirty looks from walking in DUMBO with paint on his clothes.

Huffington Post

SHOTS AND A BEER Some of the frankest remarks during the conference came in a speech by Robert C. Lachky, executive vice president for global industry development and chief creative officer at Anheuser-Busch.

The New York Times

Sadie's blunt remarks and frank unattractiveness seemed to permit, if not invite, unabashed inspection, and Perkus sometimes caught himself puzzling backward, attempting to visualize a woman onstage behind a drum kit at the Mudd Club.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal contexts, consider "candid comments" or "forthright declarations" as suitable alternatives to "frank remarks".

Common error

While "frank remarks" is appropriate in many contexts, avoid overusing it in casual conversations where a more subtle or nuanced expression might be preferred. It can sound overly formal or blunt in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "frank remarks" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "frank" modifies the noun "remarks". Ludwig confirms its use to describe statements characterized by honesty and directness. The adjective "frank" gives the noun a particular quality or attribute.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "frank remarks" is a phrase used to describe statements characterized by honesty and directness. Ludwig confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used in News & Media. While it carries a neutral tone, it's crucial to be mindful of the context, as frankness can sometimes be perceived negatively. Alternatives such as "candid comments" or "outspoken statements" may be more appropriate depending on the situation. Understanding the nuances of "frank remarks" can significantly enhance one's communication skills, ensuring clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

candid comments

Emphasizes openness and honesty, differing slightly in formality.

outspoken statements

Highlights boldness and a willingness to express opinions openly.

direct observations

Focuses on straightforwardness and lack of ambiguity.

forthright declarations

Conveys a sense of clarity and decisiveness.

unreserved opinions

Stresses the absence of hesitation or qualification.

blunt assessments

Highlights directness and potential harshness or negativity.

honest appraisals

Emphasizes truthfulness and fairness in evaluation.

straightforward assertions

Highlights clarity and lack of complexity or ambiguity.

candid pronouncements

Similar to candid comments but with a tone of formality.

unflinching pronouncements

Highlights a strong resolve or conviction behind the statement.

FAQs

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

"Frank remarks" are typically used to describe statements that are direct, honest, and sometimes blunt. For example, "The CEO's frank remarks about the company's performance surprised many employees."

What can I say instead of "frank remarks"?

You can use alternatives like "candid comments", "outspoken statements", or "direct observations" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "frank remarks" and "honest opinions"?

"Frank remarks" often imply a level of directness that might be perceived as blunt or even critical, whereas "honest opinions" simply emphasize truthfulness without necessarily implying the same level of directness. "Frank remarks" can be more pointed than simple expressions of honesty.

When is it appropriate to use "frank remarks"?

It is appropriate to use "frank remarks" when you want to emphasize the direct and honest nature of someone's statements, especially in situations where such candor is notable or impactful. Be mindful of the potential for misinterpretation, as frankness can sometimes be perceived negatively.