candidly
Americanadverb
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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.
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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.
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fairly and impartially; honestly.
“Look at these matters candidly, Mr. Editor,” wrote one subscriber.
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of candidly
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.
“We’re definitely really nervous and anxious about the upcoming season, especially with the staff shortage we already have,” said a National Federation of Federal Employees union member at Yosemite who requested anonymity to speak candidly.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 26, 2026
A Harvard-educated attorney and Vanderbilt heiress, Burden, 56, writes candidly about how she ceded control of her finances to her ex during their 20-year marriage, trusting him to act in her best interests.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026
“The idea that we should have to identify ourselves and create this link to our identity that removes our ability to safely and candidly critique power and wealth is crazy to me.”
From Salon • Apr. 16, 2026
Arbeloa spoke candidly about the consequences he may face - both Manuel Pellegrini and Zidane left their jobs after leading Madrid to trophyless campaigns.
From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026
“This party. Yes. It will be the perfect setting for me to speak candidly with the ambassador and enlist his help. When and where is it?”
From "The Bletchley Riddle" by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
