frank response

USAGE SUMMARY

'frank response' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to convey an honest, direct answer to something. For example: "I asked my boss for an increase in my salary. His frank response was that he could not approve it at this time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

You'll need to frame such questions with care to prompt a frank response.

Harvard University

First, we have met with Primark and demanded that it provides us with a prompt, full and frank response to the allegations.

The Guardian - Business

His frank response was a tirade of swearwords, contrasting nicely with the sentiments of peace on earth and goodwill to all.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Amnesty International praised the government for its willingness to confront the issue of torture and for its "full and frank response" to international criticism.

The New York Times

"We would be very keen to get from the Home Office a full and frank response to the research that was commissioned in 2002.

Independent

At the weekend, John Oliver continued to push the boundaries of current affairs reporting on his HBO show Last Week Tonight with a typically frank response to the Paris attacks.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Their frank responses are being collected via postcards.

University of California, Berkeley

A response from Kathleen Volk Miller, whose essay about her very frank talk with her daughter led to a lot of equally frank responses.

The New York Times

Taking to question-and-answer website Quora, three current San Quentin inmates gave frank responses when asked 'what does it feel like to murder someone?'.

Independent

In lunches with students, he welcomed policy and political questions, giving frank responses and entertaining opposing views from me and others.

The New York Times

The fast-paced format drew frank responses from candidates on a wide range of issues, major policy points such as immigration and criminal justice and specific questions about reparations and white privilege.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "frank response" when you want to emphasize both the honesty and directness of an answer. It's appropriate in situations where transparency is valued.

Common error

Avoid using "frank response" when the context requires tact or diplomacy. Frankness can be perceived as rude if not delivered with sensitivity. Consider the audience and the potential impact of your words.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "frank response" functions as a noun phrase, where "frank" modifies "response". It describes a particular quality of a response, indicating that it is honest and direct. Ludwig examples confirm its common usage in describing answers and feedback.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "frank response" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe an honest and direct answer or feedback. According to Ludwig, it's suitable for use across various contexts, including news, academia, and science. While its straightforward nature is valued, it's important to consider the context and audience to avoid unintended offense. Alternatives like "honest answer" or "direct reply" may be more appropriate in certain situations, but "frank response" effectively conveys a sense of transparency and truthfulness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

honest answer

Focuses on the honesty of the reply, omitting the directness aspect.

direct reply

Emphasizes the straightforwardness of the answer, without explicitly stating its truthfulness.

candid feedback

Highlights the openness and sincerity of the feedback provided.

forthright answer

Stresses the unambiguous and clear nature of the answer.

blunt reply

Suggests a more forceful and less tactful directness.

straightforward response

Highlights the simplicity and lack of ambiguity in the answer.

truthful statement

Focuses solely on the veracity of the statement, potentially lacking immediacy.

open communication

Refers to a general attitude, not a specific answer.

unreserved reply

Emphasizes the lack of hesitation or limitation in the response.

genuine reaction

Highlights the authenticity and sincerity of the reaction or answer.

FAQs

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

You can use "frank response" to describe a direct and honest answer. For instance, "The CEO's "frank response" to the investor's question surprised many."

What's a less formal way to say "frank response"?

Alternatives include "honest answer", "straight answer", or "being upfront" depending on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to give a "frank response"?

While honesty is often valued, sometimes diplomacy is necessary. Consider whether a "frank response" might be hurtful or counterproductive in a given situation.

What's the difference between "frank response" and "candid response"?

While similar, "candid response" often implies a willingness to share information openly, whereas "frank response" emphasizes directness and honesty, even if it might be uncomfortable.