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

Mr Chambers responded "absolutely not", and said the hospital "shared with police very openly and candidly what we genuinely believed to be the position as we understood it at the time".

From BBC

She candidly describes how a lack of knowledge and discomfort with sex took a toll on her marriage.

From BBC

I provided them anonymity, including their team and specific job title, so they could speak as candidly as possible.

From Los Angeles Times

Ms Pelicot has also, however, spoken candidly about the devastation that her husband's abuse and lies have wreaked on her life.

From BBC

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

Related Words

• honestly
• openly
• sincerely
• straight-out