frank — honest and direct in speech or writing, especially when dealing with unpalatable matters
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: honest and direct in speech or writing, especially when dealing with unpalatable matters
Pronunciation (IPA): /fræŋk/
Example Sentences
- To be frank, your cooking tastes like you're trying to punish the ingredients.
- The doctor gave us a frank assessment of the patient's condition.
- Frank discussion about salary expectations is essential during job interviews.
frank
ADJECTIVE[/fræŋk/]
honest and direct in speech or writing, especially when dealing with unpalatable matters
Honest and direct in difficult conversation
Be frank at the bank, clear as the tank!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Middle French franc, originally meaning 'free'. After the Franks conquered Gaul, the term came to denote a free person or freeman, distinguished from serfs and slaves. The meaning subsequently evolved to 'candid' or 'outspoken', reflecting the association of freedom with the ability to speak without constraint.
Breakdown
franc (free) → frank (candid, outspoken). The semantic shift reflects the association between freedom and unrestricted speech; those who were free citizens could speak openly, thus 'frank' came to mean honest and direct.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“To be frank, your cooking tastes like you're trying to punish the ingredients.”
“The doctor gave us a frank assessment of the patient's condition.”
“Frank discussion about salary expectations is essential during job interviews.”
“I'll be frank with you - your presentation needs serious work before tomorrow.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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