straightforward

1 of 2

adjective

straight·​for·​ward ˌstrāt-ˈfȯr-wərd 

ˈstrāt-ˌfȯr-

1

a

: free from evasiveness or obscurity : exact, candid

a straightforward account

b(1)

: clear-cut, precise

straightforward instructions

(2)

: easy to do

Using the computer program is pretty straightforward.

2

: proceeding in a straight course or manner : direct, undeviating

straightforwardly adverb

straightforwardness noun

straightforward

2 of 2

adverb

variants or less commonly straightforwards

ˌstrāt-ˈfȯr-wərdz 

: in a straightforward manner

Synonyms of straightforward

Adjective

• direct
• straight
• honest
• plain
• forthright
• candid

Adverb

• openly
• plain
• straightforwardly
• sincerely
• simply
• straight
• honestly
• abruptly
• plainly
• forthrightly
• directly

Examples of straightforward in a Sentence

Adjective

Using the computer program is fairly straightforward.

He was very straightforward with us.

She gave a straightforward account of what happened.

Adverb

she finally told him straightforward that she wasn't interested in a date

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

This move, driven by safety concerns over unintuitive designs, could significantly influence global car design, pushing automakers to prioritize straightforward mechanical safety features over sleek, electrically dependent aesthetics. — Peter Lyon, Forbes.com, 22 Aug. 2026

The stellar attacker scenario has not been straightforward this summer. — Amy Lawrence, New York Times, 22 Aug. 2026

Swirl Bone is the most straightforward design in its library with its clean, white design and subtle patterned rim. — Angela Tafoya, Architectural Digest, 21 Aug. 2026

That seems pretty straightforward, but some are pointing out the subtle connection to the Prince and Princess of Wales, who used to reside at Adelaide Cottage in Windsor. — Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 19 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1787, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Adverb

1779, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for straightforward

• henceforward
• thenceforward
• carryforward
• equatorward
• forward
• shoreward

Kids Definition

straightforward

1 of 2 adjective

straight·​for·​ward (ˈ)strāt-ˈfȯr-wərd 

1

: outspoken, candid

a straightforward reply

2

: proceeding in a straight course or manner : direct

straightforwardly adverb

straightforwardness noun

straightforward

2 of 2 adverb

variants also straightforwards

-wərdz 

: in a straightforward manner