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Synonym Chooser

How is the word candid distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of candid are frank, open, and plain. While all these words mean "showing willingness to tell what one feels or thinks," candid suggests expression marked by sincerity and honesty especially in offering unwelcome criticism or opinion.

a candid appraisal

When would frank be a good substitute for candid?

The synonyms frank and candid are sometimes interchangeable, but frank stresses lack of shyness or secretiveness or of evasiveness from considerations of tact or expedience.

frank discussions

How is open related to other words for candid?

Open implies frankness but suggests more indiscretion than frank and less earnestness than candid.

open in saying what they think

When might plain be a better fit than candid?

The words plain and candid can be used in similar contexts, but plain suggests outspokenness and freedom from affectation or subtlety in expression.

plain talk

Examples of candid in a Sentence

These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Recent Examples on the Web Team-building exercises and candid feedback sessions can foster deeper trust and mutual respect. Gamze Acar Bayraktaroglu, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024 From the salon chair, the two get candid about mastering their own hair routines, the importance of family, and the time Gauff was completely starstruck meeting her tennis idol. R29 Unbothered, refinery29.com, 25 Oct. 2024 Complementing this period of reflection with an engagement survey could motivate employees to provide candid, thoughtful feedback about their experiences. Amanda Connelly, Forbes, 23 Oct. 2024 The actress gets candid about what it's really been like adjusting to life as a family of six since her daughter was born in May. Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal, Parents, 22 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for candid 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for candid
Adjective
  • Will Pierce, former Senior Advisor to Bernie Sanders and Director of the Draft Biden movement, is now a Republican strategist and outspoken critic of the Democratic Party.
    Marco Rubio, Newsweek, 1 Nov. 2024
  • Musk’s outspoken positions on social issues, particularly his recent hostility to corporate diversity, equity and inclusion policies, has led the California Public Employees’ Retirement System, or CalPERS, which owns Tesla shares worth about $1.8 billion, to review its investment in the carmaker.
    Alan Ohnsman, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • The Justice Department under Merrick Garland has often more resembled a left-wing blog than a sober, impartial enforcer of the law.
    Dan McLaughlin, National Review, 16 Oct. 2024
  • That man is the intended result: A person so removed from our shared reality that no impartial fact can sway him from his fear, rage and commitment.
    Anita Chabria, Los Angeles Times, 15 Oct. 2024
Adjective
  • Kim would never do such a thing, and that’s the honest to God truth.
    DeMicia Inman, VIBE.com, 1 Nov. 2024
  • Here are more tips for helping your child practice emotional regulation skills: Engage in open, honest conversations.
    Melissa Willets, Parents, 1 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • As a result, a small group of ultra-wealthy individuals can have a disproportionate effect on electoral outcomes and the political landscape, raising concerns about the equitable representation of all citizens in the democratic process.
    Jack Kelly, Forbes, 23 Oct. 2024
  • Experts appeared on a series of four panel discussions, addressing issues like equitable access to health care, women’s health, the impact of emerging technologies, and health policy changes.
    Simmone Shah, TIME, 23 Oct. 2024
Adjective
  • This comment captures not only a vision for the future but also a frank admission of the difficulties Boeing encounters with the 737 MAX catastrophe, manufacturing delays, and financial turmoil.
    Jim Osman, Forbes, 23 Oct. 2024
  • Michael Keaton has a frank message for men backing Donald Trump and his MAGA cheerleader, Elon Musk.
    Charisma Madarang, Rolling Stone, 23 Oct. 2024
Adjective
  • From commute-to-cocktail, this hero handbag is equal parts versatile and stylish—two non-negationables when making a new luxury purchase.
    Laura Jackson, Vogue, 31 Oct. 2024
  • Smith’s original movie is a clear product of his distinct worldview but was embraced and criticized in equal measure by a community that expected more from it.
    Christian Zilko, IndieWire, 31 Oct. 2024
Adjective
  • This forthcoming retrograde phase will emphasize our goals and motivations, particularly where creativity and self-expression are concerned.
    Valerie Mesa, People.com, 1 Nov. 2024
  • Peter Atencio, a comedy veteran currently in post on Legendary’s forthcoming live-action/animation hybrid Animal Friends, will direct.
    Matt Grobar, Deadline, 1 Nov. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near candid

Cite this Entry

“Candid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/candid. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on candid

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