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Synonyms

candidness

American  
[kan-did-nis] / ˈkæn dɪd nɪs /

noun

  1. the quality of being open, honest, or straightforward.

    We appreciate the promptness and candidness with which the professor has addressed and apologized for his oversight.

    The book, despite its candidness about the grim realities of the situation, offers a message of hope and promise.


Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of candidness

candid ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

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.

See Examples For:

Many reflected on Brendon’s candidness about his personal struggles, celebrating his humanity alongside his talent.

From Salon Mar. 21, 2026

But the dancers encourage candidness by sharing stories about their own bodies, or examples from other participants.

From New York Times Nov. 21, 2022

“His smile and his candidness will reach and relate well with others on the same journey.”

From Seattle Times Mar. 17, 2022

Rolston posed the model, one arm hidden behind her, with her right arm slightly bent and her hand turned to an open palm — a gesture of candidness that quietly resounds against her actual concealment.

From Los Angeles Times Aug. 16, 2021

I was surprised by his candidness and said so.

From "The Color of Water: A Black Man's Tribute to His White Mother" by James McBride

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