to be candid

USAGE SUMMARY

"to be candid" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to preface a statement that one considers to be honest or frank. Example: To be candid, I don't think this project is going as smoothly as we expected.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This is precisely why candidates are reluctant to be candid with voters.

Huffington Post

6. Agree to be candid.

Harvard Business Review

I am not a foodie, to be candid.

The New York Times

Next, the administration needs to be candid with the public.

The New York Times

Biden likes to be candid in such settings.

The New Yorker

He urges the executives present to be candid.

The New Yorker

To be candid, the place did not look so great.

The New York Times

The type who managed to be candid and encouraging?

The Guardian - Books

"It's really hard to find anything disappointing, to be candid".

The New York Times

They have to be candid, but not aggressively so.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

But the first half of 2004 to be candid has been a big yawn.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to be candid" to introduce a statement that might be perceived as critical or controversial, softening the impact with the prefatory phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "to be candid" too frequently in your writing, as it can become repetitive and diminish the impact of your statements. Opt for other phrases or rely on the context to imply your honesty.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "to be candid" is that of a discourse marker. It serves to signal the speaker's intention to be frank and honest, often preceding a statement that might be perceived as critical or sensitive. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Formal & Business

24%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to be candid" is a widely recognized and grammatically sound phrase used to introduce a frank or honest statement. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. It functions as a discourse marker, signaling sincerity and potentially softening the impact of what follows. While versatile, it is most frequently encountered in news and media, as well as formal business contexts. When using the phrase, consider the audience and context, avoiding overuse to maintain its effectiveness. Alternatives like "to be frank" or "in all candor" can provide nuanced variations in tone and formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be frank

Similar in meaning, but can sometimes come across as more blunt or direct.

to be honest

A very common and generally interchangeable phrase, slightly more neutral in tone.

in all candor

More formal and emphatic way of expressing honesty.

to put it frankly

Emphasizes the directness and potential bluntness of the statement.

truthfully speaking

Highlights the veracity of the statement being made.

to tell you the truth

A more conversational way to introduce a candid statement.

if I'm being honest

Acknowledges potential subjectivity or personal opinion.

in my honest opinion

Clearly marks the statement as a personal belief.

let's be real

More informal and direct, often used to introduce an uncomfortable truth.

between you and me

Indicates confidentiality and suggests the statement might be sensitive.

FAQs

How can I use "to be candid" in a sentence?

Use "to be candid" as an introductory phrase to preface a frank or honest statement. For example, "To be candid, I wasn't impressed with the presentation."

What's a more formal alternative to "to be candid"?

A more formal alternative is "in all candor". This phrase conveys a similar meaning with a more elevated tone.

What can I say instead of "to be candid" in informal situations?

In informal contexts, consider using phrases like "let's be real" or "to tell you the truth" for a more relaxed feel.

Is it always necessary to use a phrase like "to be candid" when expressing honesty?

No, using a phrase like "to be candid" is not always necessary. Directness can be effective, but these phrases can soften potentially harsh statements or emphasize sincerity.