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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

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of candid Since then, the couple have been candid about their relationship and their roles as parents. Charlotte Phillipp, People.com, 25 May 2025 The list was provided by a source on the condition of anonymity in order to be candid about the funding of organizations that have not all publicly announced the cuts. Kevin Rector, Los Angeles Times, 23 May 2025 Cyrus’ conversation with Kimmel comes just one day after her sit-down with Apple Music 1’s Zane Lowe went live, featuring the Hannah Montana alum getting candid about her sobriety. Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 23 May 2025 The candid nature of the moment, Lubomirski said, is what drew people in. Meredith Kile, People.com, 20 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for candid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for candid
Adjective
  • Councilmember Monica Rodriguez, an outspoken critic of the city’s homeless programs, also has been a longtime supporter of terminating the emergency.
    Rebecca Ellis, Los Angeles Times, 31 May 2025
  • These decisions suggest an effort to suppress all but the most overt nationalistic efforts from American artists, a fool’s errand given the outspoken nature of the creative community, and one that is not unfamiliar around the globe.
    Eric Kohn, HollywoodReporter, 30 May 2025
Adjective
  • While Congress sets the CBO’s priorities, the group prides itself on being objective, impartial, and nonpartisan.
    Nathan Goldman, Forbes.com, 5 June 2025
  • Her expertise lies in building boards with the right balance of domain expertise and impartial oversight, ensuring alignment between governance and investor confidence.
    Malana VanTyler, USA Today, 5 June 2025
Adjective
  • Like so many good honest people with common sense who work hard and pay taxes, the Democrat party has abandoned them.
    Andrew Stanton, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 May 2025
  • Because spontaneous conversations are harder in a hybrid environment, actively create spaces for honest discussions.
    Ayaskant Sarangi, Forbes.com, 30 May 2025
Adjective
  • The result is a more agile, inclusive and resilient workforce where employees have equitable access to growth.
    Abakar Saidov, Forbes.com, 3 June 2025
  • These days — at least on Friday nights — the space offers musicians an equitable spotlight.
    Erick Galindo, Los Angeles Times, 3 June 2025
Adjective
  • Have a frank conversation with her about her recklessness and its impact on others.
    Harriette Cole, Mercury News, 28 May 2025
  • The bluntly declarative candor of their performances feels at once tweaked with the artifice of frank expressivity yet emotionally hyperreal.
    Richard Brody, New Yorker, 28 May 2025
Adjective
  • At the center is Cooper’s staggering performance, which is enraging, emotional, horrifying, and heartbreaking in equal measure.
    Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 29 May 2025
  • Hoka has long been my go-to for sneakers that are equal parts supportive and stylish, and now one of the brand’s best-sellers, the Hoka Clifton 9 sneakers, are up to 35 percent off at Zappos in nine colorways.
    Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 28 May 2025
Adjective
  • Russian officials have said for weeks that such a document is forthcoming.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 31 May 2025
  • Family is everything to him, and recently the world has been buzzing about a forthcoming Michael Jackson biopic in which Brown’s cousin Jaafar Jackson is portraying their legendary King of Pop uncle.
    Lisa Respers France, CNN Money, 31 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Candid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/candid. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

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