Forthright
/ˈfɔːrθˌraɪt/
adjectiveadverbB2
Definition
Forthright describes someone who speaks or acts in a clear, honest, and direct way. This person does not avoid difficult topics or hide their true thoughts. Being forthright means telling the truth openly, even if it might be uncomfortable.
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See It in Action
Honest and direct in speech or behavior
- •She was forthright about her feelings during the meeting.
- •The manager gave a forthright answer to the difficult question.
- •Being forthright can help avoid misunderstandings.
(As an adverb) In a direct and honest way
- •He spoke forthright about the problems in the company.
- •They answered forthright to all the questions from the press.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "forthright" like "honest" (A1 word), but stronger and clearer—like saying something straight without any extra words or hiding.
- ✓Picture a straight arrow flying directly to a target without bending or turning.
- ✓It's the feeling when a friend tells you exactly what they think, even if it might surprise you.
- ✓Sounds like "FORTH-right" → Imagine someone moving FORTH (forward) with RIGHT (correct) words, going straight to the point.
- ✓Think of a teacher who explains things clearly and doesn’t avoid hard questions.
- ✓NOT like "quiet" or "shy" (hides thoughts), forthright means open and clear.
- ✓NOT like "rude" (harsh or mean), forthright is honest but respectful.
- ✓NOT like "vague" (unclear), forthright means very clear and direct.
Try Other Words
- •Direct: straightforward and clear (Use when focusing on clarity without hiding anything)
- •Candid: open and sincere (Use when emphasizing openness and truthfulness)
- •Frank: honest and sometimes blunt (Use when honesty may be a little sharp but truthful)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: "forth" (forward, ahead) + "right" (correct, straight)
- •Etymology: From Old English words meaning "going forward in the right way"
- •Historical development: Originally meant moving straight ahead; later used for speech that is straightforward and honest
- •Modern usage: Describes people or speech that is clear, honest, and direct without hiding anything
Reflect & Connect
•Can being forthright sometimes cause problems? When might it be better to be less direct?
•How does being forthright help build trust in relationships or at work?
Fill in the blanks
1.She was forthright ___ her opinion because she wanted everyone to understand her clearly.
2.A forthright person usually does not ___ their true feelings or thoughts.
3.Unlike being vague, forthright communication is always ___ and clear.
4.When he answered forthright ___ the question, everyone appreciated his honesty.
5.Being forthright can sometimes seem ___, but it is often respectful and honest.
6.People who are forthright often avoid ___ explanations and get straight to the point.
7.If someone is not forthright, we might think they are ___ or hiding something.