CANDID Synonyms: 121 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

candid

adjective

ˈkan-dəd

Definition of candid next

as in outspoken

free in expressing one's true feelings and opinions my grandmother was a candid woman who never hesitated to say exactly what was on her mind

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in impartial

marked by justice, honesty, and freedom from bias a candid listing of the advantages and disadvantages of each medical insurance plan

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 Viewers on TikTok have flooded the comments with their delight at the candid moment, and their surprise at how universally liked Bluey appears to be among canines. —

Justin Gest, Newsweek, 10 Feb. 2025 That part of the story is vital in many ways, including to any intellectually candid discussion of how Tyrer’s Hall of Fame candidacy should be viewed. —

Vahe Gregorian, Kansas City Star, 7 Feb. 2025 Billboard has an exclusive look at the emotional, candid trailer that captures the recording of the album and the vulnerabilities and frustrations that gripped John as the quartet worked at Los Angeles’ Sunset Sound Studios. —

Melinda Newman, Billboard, 5 Feb. 2025 Asked about the prospects of Democrats being able to count on Republicans’ traditional support for the soft-power programs, this woman was candid. —

Philip Elliott, TIME, 4 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for candid

Recent Examples of Synonyms for candid

Adjective

And university leaders fearing government investigations, funding cuts, or punitive endowment taxes crack down on campus protest, remove or demote outspoken professors, and remain silent in the face of growing authoritarianism.

— STEVEN LEVITSKY, Foreign Affairs, 11 Feb. 2025
The Miami Dolphins have reportedly made their decision on wide receiver Tyreek Hill after weeks of speculation that the organization was looking to trade the outspoken star.

— Justin Gest, Newsweek, 10 Feb. 2025