plain-spoken
Americanadjective
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candid; frank; blunt.
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using simple, direct language.
a plain-spoken politician.
adjective
Etymology
Origin of plain-spoken
First recorded in 1670–80
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.
Known for his mischievous humour and charm but also for his occasional plain-spoken combativeness, Hockney enjoyed a wide circle of friends while remaining close to his parents, whom he painted in several memorable portraits.
From Barron's ● Jun. 12, 2026
In 2008, John McCain's running mate, Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, who entranced the GOP elites with her good looks and her plain-spoken, rural folksiness, seemed to be their dream come true.
From Salon ● May 16, 2025
But you’ve earned an opportunity,’” said Banister, who at 61 has the tan, chiseled good looks and plain-spoken manner of a Western movie sheriff.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 23, 2025
The 60-year-old brings with him a folksy, plain-spoken and sharp-tongued approach to taking on the Republican opposition.
From BBC ● Aug. 6, 2024
No sooner did she think of her dress than one of the housemaids, a short and plain-spoken girl whom everyone called Susan, came by the nursery with a message.
From "The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place: Book I: The Mysterious Howling" by Maryrose Wood
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.
