in candor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in candor" is correct and can be used in written English.
It refers to an honest and frank statement. For example, "I must admit, in candor, that I wasn't entirely honest with you."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

Once in Candor, the route and the creek turn northward toward the village of Candor, where NY 96 meets NY 96B, an alternate route of NY 96 between Candor and the city of Ithaca.

Wikipedia

Last week's experiment in candor?

The New York Times

His public addresses were conspicuously lacking in candor.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This was seen as a breakthrough in candor.

The New Yorker

Unfortunately, Ms. Reno's change of position has not led to an increase in candor.

The New York Times

Her efforts to explain some previous statements were lacking in candor.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

The "entries are sometimes startling in their candor," one critic wrote in 1985.

The New York Times - Books

Springsteen seemed so confident in owning his yearning, in his candor, that how could we not follow him into battle?

The New York Times

He talks very fast, but he is methodical in his logic and disarming in his candor.

The New York Times

He asked that his name be withheld in exchange for candor in discussing a sensitive topic.

The New York Times

"In perfect candor, your honor, I have no interest in wasting the taxpayers' time or money".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in candor" to introduce a statement that might be unexpected or challenge a previously held assumption. It signals to the reader that you are about to be particularly forthright.

Common error

Avoid using "in candor" excessively, as it can make your writing sound overly formal or insincere. Reserve it for situations where genuine frankness is needed for impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in candor" functions as a discourse marker or sentence adverbial. It serves to signal the speaker's intention to be frank and honest, often preceding a statement that might be unexpected or challenge a previous assumption. As Ludwig AI confirms, it indicates directness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Academia

29%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Wiki

14%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in candor" is a prepositional phrase used to introduce a frank and honest statement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and notes its function as a discourse marker. While not extremely common, it appears most frequently in news and media contexts, as well as in academic writing, signaling a level of formality above casual conversation. Consider using alternative phrases like "in all honesty" or "frankly speaking" to diversify your writing. Be mindful of overusing "in candor", as it may come across as insincere if used too often. In all, it's a useful phrase for emphasizing transparency and directness in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in all honesty

Emphasizes sincerity and truthfulness in the statement.

frankly speaking

Highlights the directness and openness of the communication.

to be honest

A common idiom used to introduce a truthful statement, sometimes implying a contrast to what was previously said.

in truth

Indicates that what follows is the actual or genuine state of affairs.

candidly

Expresses a straightforward and honest manner.

to tell you the truth

Similar to "to be honest", but with a more personal tone.

honestly

A simple adverb indicating truthfulness.

in fairness

Acknowledges different perspectives before stating a potentially contrasting viewpoint.

with complete honesty

Stresses the thoroughness and integrity of the speaker's truthfulness.

in plain language

Highlights clarity and simplicity in the communication, avoiding jargon or euphemisms.

FAQs

How to use "in candor" in a sentence?

Use "in candor" to preface a statement that is honest and direct. For example, "In candor, I don't believe this plan will succeed."

What can I say instead of "in candor"?

You can use alternatives like "in all honesty", "frankly speaking", or "to be honest" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "in candor" or "in candour"?

"In candor" is the standard American English spelling, while "in candour" is the British English spelling. Both are correct depending on the regional context.

What's the difference between "in candor" and "honestly"?

"In candor" is often used to introduce a statement that might be sensitive or unexpected, implying a deeper level of frankness. "Honestly" is a more general term for truthfulness.