frankly
gb/fɹˈæŋkli/ us/fɹˈæŋkli/
B1
English
~ 4400
Senses
0 senses
adverb
B1
property
1
honestly and directly
In a way that is honest and says what you really think, even if it is not nice.
Usage pattern:
frankly [verb/statement]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'frankly' with 'frank', using it incorrectly as an adjective. 'Frankly' is an adverb and modifies verbs or whole statements.
Synonyms
honestly (Similar meaning but slightly softer and more general; less emphasis on bluntness.)
|
bluntly (Stronger connotation of rudeness or lack of tact compared to 'frankly'.)
Antonyms
evasively (Opposite in that it avoids giving a clear or direct answer.)
|
dishonestly (Opposite in that it hides the truth or gives false information.)
Collocations
frankly speaking
|frankly admit
|frankly acknowledge
|frankly discuss
Themes
communication
|emotions
|daily life
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- Frankly, I don't think this plan will work.
- She told him frankly that she was not interested.
- Frankly speaking, the service was terrible.
- He frankly admitted that he had made a mistake.
- Frankly, I was surprised by your decision.
Learner examples
- Frankly, I am tired.
- Frankly, this food is not good.
- She spoke frankly about her problems.
- Frankly, I don’t like the movie.
Grammar
Expressions
frankly speaking
1/fɹˈæŋkli spˈikɪŋ/
fixed phrase
'honestly saying' phrase intro
Used before saying something in an honest and direct way.
Examples
- Frankly speaking, I don't think this will work.
- Frankly speaking, you should have been more careful.
frankly speaking
2/fɹˈæŋkli spˈikɪŋ/
fixed phrase
honestly speaking
Used before saying something in a very honest and direct way.
Examples
- Frankly speaking, I don’t trust him.
- Frankly speaking, the project has many problems.