CANDID Synonyms: 121 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'candid' distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of candid are frank , open , and plain . While all these words mean "showing willingness to tell what one feels or thinks," candid suggests expression marked by sincerity and honesty especially in offering unwelcome criticism or opinion. // a candid appraisal

Q: When would 'frank' be a good substitute for 'candid'?

The synonyms frank and candid are sometimes interchangeable, but frank stresses lack of shyness or secretiveness or of evasiveness from considerations of tact or expedience. // frank discussions

Q: How is 'open' related to other words for 'candid'?

Open implies frankness but suggests more indiscretion than frank and less earnestness than candid . // open in saying what they think

Q: When might 'plain' be a better fit than 'candid'?

The words plain and candid can be used in similar contexts, but plain suggests outspokenness and freedom from affectation or subtlety in expression. // plain talk

candid

adjective

ˈkan-dəd

Definition of candid next

as in outspoken

free in expressing one's true feelings and opinions my grandmother was a candid woman who never hesitated to say exactly what was on her mind

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in impartial

marked by justice, honesty, and freedom from bias a candid listing of the advantages and disadvantages of each medical insurance plan

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word candid distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of candid are frank, open, and plain. While all these words mean "showing willingness to tell what one feels or thinks," candid suggests expression marked by sincerity and honesty especially in offering unwelcome criticism or opinion.

a candid appraisal

When would frank be a good substitute for candid?

The synonyms frank and candid are sometimes interchangeable, but frank stresses lack of shyness or secretiveness or of evasiveness from considerations of tact or expedience.

frank discussions

How is open related to other words for candid?

Open implies frankness but suggests more indiscretion than frank and less earnestness than candid.

open in saying what they think

When might plain be a better fit than candid?

The words plain and candid can be used in similar contexts, but plain suggests outspokenness and freedom from affectation or subtlety in expression.

plain talk

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of candid Her latest record, Slippers 08, is her most candid effort yet, grounding moments of gut-punching reality in crisp, spacious production. —

Jude Noel, Pitchfork, 19 June 2026 In this colorful blend of 2D animation and ink on paper short, Catherine Lepage invites the viewer into a candid and self-deprecating autofictional story. —

Kevin Giraud, Variety, 18 June 2026 Their first project, Hot Laps, is a celebrity interview and automotive series that pairs high-speed track driving with candid conversations featuring Hollywood stars, athletes, and cultural icons. —

Tony Maglio, HollywoodReporter, 18 June 2026 Her social media comments came at a time when stars were being increasingly candid about cosmetic work. —

Jackie Fields, PEOPLE, 18 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for candid

Recent Examples of Synonyms for candid

Adjective

Bush, an outspoken critic of Israel, launched a primary challenge last fall for what’s now the sole remaining safe blue seat in Missouri after Republicans redrew the map.

— Nicholas Wu, semafor.com, 16 June 2026
The representative earned applause from those in attendance after one attendee praised Matsui’s outspoken support of the Afghan community, especially after federal immigration agents reportedly detained multiple Afghans living in the Sacramento area late last year.

— Sean Campbell, Sacbee.com, 14 June 2026