Frank Definition: How to Use It in English

Meaning 1：frank (frank)

frank 🔊

/fræŋk/

adj.

Being honest and direct in what you say, even if it might upset others.

frank 🔊

➕

/fræŋk/

adj.

Being open, honest, and direct in expressing thoughts or opinions, even when the truth may be uncomfortable.

📁 Category：Behaviors & Actions 🔖 Level：intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Old French 'franc' (free), later evolving to mean free in speech, candid.

💡 Mnemonic

Frank is 'free' to speak his mind, like a Frankish warrior declaring the truth.

📖 Example

My friend was frank about not liking my new haircut, but I appreciated her honesty. 🔊 My friend was direct and honest about not liking my new haircut, but I appreciated her honesty.

🔗 Collocations

to be frank with someone – to speak honestly and directly to someone

frank opinion – an honest and straightforward opinion

frank discussion – an open and candid conversation

🔄 Synonyms

candid (adj.) – truthful and straightforward; frank

blunt (adj.) – saying exactly what you think without trying to be polite

outspoken (adj.) – saying what you think openly, even if it causes disagreement

🚫 Antonyms

evasive (adj.) – tending to avoid giving clear or direct answers

deceitful (adj.) – hiding the truth or acting dishonestly

secretive (adj.) – inclined to conceal feelings or intentions

🌱 Derivatives

frankly (adv.) – in an honest and direct manner

frankness (n.) – the quality of being open and honest

📖 Cultural Story

Originates from the Franks, a Germanic tribe. Their name meant 'free', and 'frank' came to denote free and honest speech in medieval courts.