Word
outspoken
Phoneticsout·spo·ken, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈaʊtˈspoʊkən/
UK/aʊtspˈəʊkən/
Definition
adj. saying what you think in a very direct and honest way, especially about important or difficult topics.
adj. expressing opinions in a direct, frank, and often forceful manner, particularly when those views are controversial or critical.
Examples
“She is very outspoken about the need for better schools.”
“The politician's outspoken nature earned him many enemies, but his supporters admired his refusal to stay silent.”
“Despite the risk of professional backlash, the scientist remained an outspoken critic of the government's environmental policies, frequently publishing articles that challenged the official narrative.”
Examples
simple
“She is very outspoken about the need for better schools.”
contextual
“The politician's outspoken nature earned him many enemies, but his supporters admired his refusal to stay silent.”
complex
“Despite the risk of professional backlash, the scientist remained an outspoken critic of the government's environmental policies, frequently publishing articles that challenged the official narrative.”
Usage
Usually used to describe people or their public comments and criticisms.
Teaching tip
While '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.
Real-World Examples
“Hinton in recent years has been outspoken on what he views as the extreme risks posed by developments in AI technology.” “Graham, who died in July, was among Ukraine ’s most outspoken allies in Congress and spent the final days of his life trying to advance the bill in Congress.” Etymology
From outspeak, equivalent to out- + spoken.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/outspoken