directness

noun

di·​rect·​ness də-ˈrek(t)-nəs 

dī-

1

: the character of being accurate in course or aim

2

: strict pertinence : straightforwardness

her directness was disarming

—Robin Cook

Synonyms

• honesty
• sincerity
• frankness
• bluntness
• forthrightness
• straightforwardness
• candor

Examples of directness in a Sentence

his directness is much appreciated by his patients

Recent Examples on the Web

All the digressions and discombobulations, and the need to flesh out so many angles of the Stacy/Aislin dynamic, impact the directness some of the play’s key messages about mortality, community and communication. —Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 13 June 2025

Many value directness, professionalism and loyalty in communication. —Kathryn Lancioni, Forbes.com, 5 June 2025

Such directness is shown below in Doue’s forward carries, highlighting just how much the 20-year-old makes a beeline for the penalty area upon receiving the ball on either touchline. —Mark Carey, New York Times, 9 June 2025

Colonial history cannot be detached from such cuisine-making, and Thompson approaches it with directness and clarity. —Hayley Maitland, Vogue, 7 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for directness

• correctness
• perfectness
• incorrectness
• indirectness