speak candidly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "speak candidly" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It means to speak openly, honestly, and without holding back. Example: During the interview, the CEO encouraged the candidates to speak candidly about their strengths and weaknesses.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Politicians should speak candidly to the electorate.

Independent

This executive requested anonymity to speak candidly.

The New York Times

"The problem here," he added, "is that she's not willing to speak candidly about it".

The New York Times

The Republicans will refuse to, and the president should speak candidly about their disregard for workers.

The New York Times

You may speak candidly when you get there and when you return.

The New York Times - Magazine

And, he says, they are less likely to speak candidly about their feelings when asked.

The New York Times

This quote, from someone who apparently agreed to speak candidly in exchange for anonymity, is representative.

The New York Times

If clients did not feel free to speak candidly, their lawyers could not represent them effectively.

The New York Times

He organized a panel of ex-convict professors to speak candidly about their experience in jail.

The New York Times - Books

He and two other NATO officials agreed to speak candidly about current operations if they weren't quoted by name.

The New York Times

She calls the dealer by the pseudonym Curt Avery, "which allowed him to speak candidly," she writes.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Before using "speak candidly", consider your audience and the potential impact of your message. While candor is valued, it should be balanced with sensitivity and respect for others' feelings.

Common error

Avoid using "speak candidly" as an excuse to be disrespectful or insensitive. Candor should not come at the expense of kindness and tact. Always consider the impact of your words on others.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "speak candidly" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which someone speaks. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, and the provided examples demonstrate this function in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Formal & Business

18%

Science

11%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "speak candidly" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adverbial phrase that conveys a commitment to honest and open communication. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, supported by numerous examples from various sources. While primarily used in news and media, it also appears in formal business and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, remember to balance candor with sensitivity, ensuring that your message is both honest and respectful.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

speak honestly

Focuses directly on truthfulness, omitting the nuance of openness.

speak frankly

Emphasizes directness and a lack of hesitation, potentially more blunt.

speak openly

Highlights transparency and a lack of concealment, differing slightly in focus.

speak directly

Focuses on clear and unambiguous communication, without necessarily implying complete honesty.

speak freely

Indicates a lack of restraint or censorship, which is a contextual difference.

be forthright

Highlights being direct and unambiguous; shifts from verb phrase to adjective.

mince no words

Highlights avoiding euphemisms, adding a level of intensity and possible negative connotation.

tell it like it is

Highlights bluntness and a lack of sugarcoating, very informal.

pull no punches

Emphasizes a lack of restraint, adding a confrontational nuance.

be upfront

Focuses on honesty and clarity from the beginning, a slightly different temporal aspect.

FAQs

What does "speak candidly" mean?

To "speak candidly" means to speak openly, honestly, and frankly, without holding back your true thoughts and feelings. It implies a level of trust and a willingness to be transparent.

How can I use "speak candidly" in a sentence?

You can use "speak candidly" to describe how someone communicates, such as, "The CEO encouraged employees to "speak honestly" during the town hall meeting" or "The journalist was granted anonymity to "speak freely" about the investigation".

What are some alternatives to "speak candidly"?

Alternatives to "speak candidly" include "speak frankly", "speak honestly", "speak openly", "be forthright", and "mince no words". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always appropriate to "speak candidly"?

While honesty is generally valued, it's not always appropriate to "speak candidly". Consider the context, your audience, and the potential impact of your words. Sometimes, tact and diplomacy are more suitable than unfiltered candor.