plain-spoken

American  

[pleyn-spoh-kuhn] / ˈpleɪnˈspoʊ kən /

adjective

1. candid; frank; blunt.

2. using simple, direct language.

   a plain-spoken politician.

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plain-spoken British  

adjective

1. candid; frank; blunt

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Etymology

Origin of plain-spoken

First recorded in 1670–80

Example Sentences

Practical if cynical advice to future White House staffers: If you’re going to do a series of interviews in which you share plain-spoken thoughts and views, do it with a writer working the beat who will continue to need you as a source, someone whose flourishing depends to some degree on your goodwill.

From The Wall Street Journal

The gardener, a young, plain-spoken fellow, gestured toward his wheelbarrow.

From Literature

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

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

A plain-spoken farmer and Montana native who famously lost three of his fingers in a childhood meat-grinding accident, his buzz cut and ample belly make him no one’s idea of a slick, poll-tested politician.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• brusque
• candid
• curt
• explicit
• forthright
• matter-of-fact
• outspoken
• rude
• trenchant