# forthright

/ˈfɔɹˈθɹaɪt/ (US) · /fˈɔːθɹaɪt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/forthright
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 2. honestly and directly

adverb · CEFR C1 · Formal

in a direct and honest way.

For teachers: in a candid or unhesitating manner; frankly.

- She spoke forthright about the mistakes she had made in the past.
- The witness answered every question forthright, leaving the jury with little doubt about the sequence of events.

### 3. moving straight ahead

adjective · CEFR C2 · Archaic

moving or going straight forward in one direction.

For teachers: proceeding in a straight course or direction.

- The old map showed a forthright path through the dense forest.
- The architect designed a forthright gallery space that led visitors directly from the entrance to the main hall.

## Examples

- She gave a forthright answer to the difficult question.
- The manager was known for his forthright style, often telling employees exactly what they needed to improve rather than what they wanted to hear.
- While many politicians prefer to speak in vague, diplomatic terms, the witness provided a forthright account of the events that transpired, leaving little room for interpretation by the jury.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.