FRANK Synonyms: 127 Similar and Opposite Words

frank 1 of 3

adjective

ˈfraŋk

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

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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 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 frank

Adjective

Pickford is fascinated by the era of early colonial expansion and also, to be frank, by treasure. —

Sam Knight, The New Yorker, 4 Nov. 2024 To be frank, the medical and public health community has struggled to effectively communicate the importance of annual COVID-19 vaccinations. —

Jerome M. Adams, The Mercury News, 22 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

And [Israel] also tried to silence the outspoken voices of what remains from the U.N.

Karl Vick, TIME, 22 Nov. 2024
Entertainment gossip and news from Newsweek's network of contributors The late Michael Jackson was outspoken about sexuality and often caused controversy with his provocative dance moves.

Matt Robison, Newsweek, 21 Nov. 2024