straightforward

American  

[streyt-fawr-werd] / ˌstreɪtˈfɔr wərd /

adjective

1. going or directed straight ahead.

   a straightforward gaze.

2. not roundabout or evasive; direct.

   straightforward criticism;

   a straightforward approach to a problem.

3. free from ambiguity; clear.

   straightforward instructions.

4. free from crookedness or deceit; honest.

   straightforward in one's dealings.

   Antonyms:

   devious

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adverb

1. Also straightforwards straight ahead; directly or continuously forward.

straightforward British  

/ ˌstreɪtˈfɔːwəd /

adjective

1. (of a person) honest, frank, or simple

2. (of a task, etc) simple; easy

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adverb

1. in a straight course

Other Word Forms

• straightforwardly adverb
• straightforwardness noun
• unstraightforward adjective

Etymology

Origin of straightforward

First recorded in 1800–10; straight + forward

Example Sentences

If a tax return is straightforward and error-free, tax filers should still expect a smooth path ahead — and that includes getting any refund on time, according to experts.

From MarketWatch

And what I find beneath the floor at that moment isn’t straightforward.

From Literature

One is a straightforward supply issue: The International Energy Association projects a “significant” global oil surplus for 2026.

From Barron's

It capped a evening of straightforward celebration in a season of tumult for Salah, Slot and Liverpool.

From BBC

"I'm very optimistic personally, but it's not going to be straightforward."

From Barron's

Related Words

• candid
• forthright
• genuine
• sincere
• truthful
• unequivocal