frankly

adverb

frank·​ly ˈfraŋ-klē 

1

: in a frank manner

spoke frankly

2

: in truth : indeed

Frankly, I don't know.

Synonyms of frankly

• honestly
• actually
• really
• indeed

Examples of frankly in a Sentence

You can speak frankly to us.

frankly, I'd rather stay at home than go to the movies tonight

Recent Examples on the Web

But frankly, those kinds of invitations are never all that special. — Bill Springer, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026

Now, this controversial drought of exomoons may have become even more confusing and, frankly, weird. — Robert Lea, Space.com, 22 July 2026

Most noticeable was the lack of NWSL cards and collectibles (and, frankly, women’s sports in general, though the WNBA was better represented). — Emily Olsen, New York Times, 21 July 2026

Try it anywhere you might be tempted to use an anchovy or two, in dressings and sauces, braises, or, frankly, any dish involving seafood. — Chris Morocco, Bon Appetit Magazine, 17 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1537, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for frankly

• blankly

Kids Definition

frankly

adverb

frank·​ly ˈfraŋ-klē 

1

: in a frank manner

you can speak frankly to us

2

: to tell the truth

frankly, I don't think it's wise