Word
frankly
Meanings
In an honest and direct way; used to introduce a candid opinion or comment.
In reality; used to say what you truly think about a situation, often to show impatience or dissatisfaction.
Definition
Used to introduce a statement in an honest and direct way, often emphasizing that you are giving your true opinion.
Frankly is an adverb used when you want to speak openly and directly, sometimes in a way that may sound blunt. It signals that what follows is your genuine view rather than a softened or diplomatic version. Speakers often use it to add emphasis or to prepare the listener for criticism or disagreement.
Examples
- Frankly, I expected a clearer plan before we committed to the deadline.
- Frankly, you’re overcomplicating a problem that could be solved with one simple check.
- Frankly, he handled the criticism better than most people would have in that situation.
- Frankly, she finds the new policy confusing and poorly explained.
- Frankly, they don’t have enough time to deliver the same level of quality this week.
Common mistake
Learners often misuse "frankly" as an adjective (e.g., "a frankly answer") instead of using "frank" to describe a noun.
More at C1 level
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- xenophobia Xenophobia is a strong dislike or fear of people from other countries or cultures.
- genocide Genocide is the deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular group in order to …
- conundrum A conundrum is a confusing and difficult problem to solve.
- pretentious Trying to seem more important, intelligent, or cultured than you really are.
More adverbs
- farther Farther means at a greater physical distance than something else.
- further Further means at a greater distance or to a greater degree, or it refers to additional things.
- literally Literally means “in the exact, real sense,” not figuratively or as an exaggeration.
- figuratively Figuratively means in a non-literal way, using a metaphor or image to express an idea.
- accordingly In a way that is appropriate to the situation or follows logically from it.