FRANK Synonyms: 127 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'frank' distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of frank are candid , open , and plain . While all these words mean "showing willingness to tell what one feels or thinks," frank stresses lack of shyness or secretiveness or of evasiveness from considerations of tact or expedience. // frank discussions

Q: When is it sensible to use 'candid' instead of 'frank'?

Although the words candid and frank have much in common, candid suggests expression marked by sincerity and honesty especially in offering unwelcome criticism or opinion. // a candid appraisal

Q: How does the word 'open' relate to other synonyms for 'frank'?

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 'frank'?

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

frank 1 of 3

adjective

ˈfraŋk

Definition of frank next

as in outspoken

free in expressing one's true feelings and opinions our ballet teacher is very frank about telling her students whether she thinks they have the talent for a career in dance

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

frank

2 of 3

noun

as in signature

Synonyms & Similar Words

as in weiner

Synonyms & Similar Words

frank

3 of 3

verb

as in to mail

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

get
receive

Synonym Chooser

How is the word frank distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of frank are candid, open, and plain. While all these words mean "showing willingness to tell what one feels or thinks," frank stresses lack of shyness or secretiveness or of evasiveness from considerations of tact or expedience.

frank discussions

When is it sensible to use candid instead of frank?

Although the words candid and frank have much in common, candid suggests expression marked by sincerity and honesty especially in offering unwelcome criticism or opinion.

a candid appraisal

How does the word open relate to other synonyms for frank?

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 frank?

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

plain talk

Examples of frank 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

Adjective

Michael Keaton has a frank message for men backing Donald Trump and his MAGA cheerleader, Elon Musk. —

Charisma Madarang, Rolling Stone, 23 Oct. 2024 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

Noun

The world-famous competitive eater will inhale franks alongside four Army soldiers stationed at Fort Bliss, El Paso, in a five-minute contest as opposed to the normal 10-minute span of his customary Fourth of July contest. —

Theresa Braine, New York Daily News, 27 June 2024 Nathan’s Famous is celebrating National Hot Dog Day by offering customers the chance to snag a frank for a nickel today — the same price diners paid when the first Nathan’s opened in 1916. —

David Matthews, New York Daily News, 17 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for frank

Recent Examples of Synonyms for frank

Adjective

The need led to mostly universal – if often reluctant – support for the tax measure among city leaders, and outspoken support from fire and police departments.

Luis Melecio-Zambrano, The Mercury News, 8 Nov. 2024
Marcus had become an outspoken supporter and financial backer of Trump, maxing out donations to his campaign this election and donating $1 million to the pro-Trump super PAC Make America Great Inc. last November.

Taylor Giorno, The Hill, 5 Nov. 2024