ENGLISH
REFERENCE

honestly

adv.
US //ˈɑnəsɫi// UK //ˈɒnɪstli// hon·est·ly
  1. 1 truthfully (adv.)
    B1 Intermediate

    in a way that is truthful and sincere.

    in a truthful, sincere, or fair manner; without deception.

    Example

    He honestly believed that he was doing the right thing for his family.

    Example

    The witness swore to answer every question honestly, regardless of how the testimony might affect his reputation in the community.
    • dishonestly
    • deceitfully
  2. 2 frankly (adv.)
    B1 Intermediate

    used to emphasize that you are telling your real opinion, even if it is surprising.

    used as a sentence adverb to emphasize the sincerity or frankness of a statement.

    Example

    Honestly, I don't think the new design is any better than the old one.

    Example

    Honestly, the proposed budget seems entirely unrealistic given the current economic climate and the rising costs of raw materials.
Origin

From Middle English honestly, honestlyche, honestliche, equivalent to honest + -ly.

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