outspoken
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
saying what you think in a very direct and honest way, especially about important or difficult topics.
expressing opinions in a direct, frank, and often forceful manner, particularly when those views are controversial or critical.
Simple“She is an outspoken critic of the new law and often speaks on the news.”
In context“The professor was known for being outspoken regarding university policy, frequently challenging the administration during public faculty meetings.”
UsageUsually used to describe people or their public comments and criticisms.
Teacher's tipWhile 'outspoken' can be a compliment for someone's courage, it can sometimes imply that the person is too loud or aggressive with their opinions depending on the context.
“Hinton in recent years has been outspoken on what he views as the extreme risks posed by developments in AI technology.”
From outspeak, equivalent to out- + spoken.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.