candidly

[ kan-did-lee ]

adverb

1. in a frank, outspoken, straightforward way; openly and without holding back:

   We created a neutral space where everyone could speak candidly about race issues and also work side-by-side in "co-designing" solutions.

2. without any posing or scripting, and typically without the knowledge of the person being photographed or filmed:

   We are stealing from our subjects when we work candidly—stealing moments, expressions, emotions, positions, and movements.

3. fairly and impartially; honestly:

   “Look at these matters candidly, Mr. Editor,” wrote one subscriber.

Other Words From

• pseu·do·can·did·ly adverb
• qua·si-can·did·ly adverb
• sub·can·did·ly adverb
• su·per·can·did·ly adverb
• un·can·did·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of candidly¹

candid ( def ) + -ly

Example Sentences

TikTok series, in which she candidly reviews L.A. restaurants in “newly colonized areas of L.A.”

From Los Angeles Times

The Queen has been campaigning for many years to raise awareness of domestic and sexual violence - and in this ITV film she talks candidly to some of its victims.

From BBC

In an interview with Megyn Kelly, he candidly said, “I probably haven’t dealt with everything.”

From Salon

He said they often spoke “candidly about sobriety, sharing stories and one-upping each other. We could laugh about it all, because if you’re still there to talk about it, that means you’re moving in a good direction.”

From Los Angeles Times

The sources requested anonymity in order to discuss the case candidly.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• honestly
• openly
• sincerely
• straight-out