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Synonyms

candidly

American  
[kan-did-lee] / ˈkæn dɪd li /

adverb

  1. in a frank, outspoken, straightforward way; openly and without holding back.

    We created a neutral space where everyone could speak candidly about race issues and also work side-by-side in "co-designing" solutions.

  2. without any posing or scripting, and typically without the knowledge of the person being photographed or filmed.

    We are stealing from our subjects when we work candidly—stealing moments, expressions, emotions, positions, and movements.

  3. fairly and impartially; honestly.

    “Look at these matters candidly, Mr. Editor,” wrote one subscriber.


Other Word Forms

  • pseudocandidly adverb
  • quasi-candidly adverb
  • subcandidly adverb
  • supercandidly adverb
  • uncandidly adverb

Etymology

Origin of candidly

candid ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

After Doherty was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer in 2015, she began publicly documenting her health journey, candidly revealing the treatments she was undergoing, while continuing to share her positive outlook on life.

From MarketWatch

"Even among Silicon Valley allies, he has outperformed expectations," said a former close associate, speaking anonymously to discuss the matter candidly.

From Barron's

In Cuba’s National Assembly this month, some legislators spoke candidly about the gravity of the situation, though there is opposition toward greatly expanding the small private-business sector.

From The Wall Street Journal

Multiple department sources, who requested anonymity to discuss the private meeting and speak candidly about their boss, said McDonnell’s answer drew confused looks.

From Los Angeles Times

Loving openly and candidly shouldn’t feel like a radical act, but in a world proliferated with violence and hatred, it’s become one.

From Salon