straightforward
Americanadjective
-
going or directed straight ahead.
a straightforward gaze.
-
not roundabout or evasive; direct.
straightforward criticism;
a straightforward approach to a problem.
-
free from ambiguity; clear.
straightforward instructions.
-
free from crookedness or deceit; honest.
straightforward in one's dealings.
- Antonyms:
- devious
adverb
adjective
-
(of a person) honest, frank, or simple
-
(of a task, etc) simple; easy
adverb
Other Word Forms
- straightforwardly adverb
- straightforwardness noun
- unstraightforward adjective
Etymology
Origin of straightforward
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.
He did not say yes in the straightforward sense.
From Slate • Apr. 10, 2026
Moreover, while going long a risk asset is relatively straightforward, being able to express a bearish position by buying an ETF designed to replicate downward moves offers a simple solution, Egilinsky added.
From MarketWatch • Apr. 9, 2026
Earlier, the Beatles had trafficked mainly in straightforward love songs, but in this one they sound less like a pop band and more like writers with literary depth.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026
Before the pair faced off in the ring, Mayer praised Cameron's style and said she expected negotiations to be straightforward.
From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026
I stand, trying to digest the straightforward information he’s given me, unsure how to explain my mission.
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.
