frank 1 of 3

Definition of franknext

frank

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noun

frank

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verb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word frank distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of frank are candid, open, and plain. While all these words mean "showing willingness to tell what one feels or thinks," frank stresses lack of shyness or secretiveness or of evasiveness from considerations of tact or expedience.

frank discussions

When is it sensible to use candid instead of frank?

Although the words candid and frank have much in common, candid suggests expression marked by sincerity and honesty especially in offering unwelcome criticism or opinion.

a candid appraisal

How does the word open relate to other synonyms for frank?

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 frank?

The words plain and frank 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 frank
Adjective
Pricing Raddysh’s next contract Last week, Lightning GM Julien BriseBois was shockingly frank with regard to extension talks for pending UFA defenseman Darren Raddysh. Dom Luszczyszyn, New York Times, 15 Jan. 2026 To be frank with you, and especially at a time when there is so much office space downtown that can be utilized at a fraction of the cost. Jack Fink, CBS News, 11 Jan. 2026
Noun
Open since 2014, the local favorite draws in heavy weekday-lunch crowds for franks. Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 4 July 2025 As for the women's competition this year, Miki Sudo scored her 11th Nathan's Famous title after downing 33 franks — falling below her 2024 record of 51. Logan Holland, People.com, 4 July 2025
Verb
Mailers Both parties also used franking privileges to send mail to constituents. Brittany Carloni, IndyStar, 11 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for frank
Recent Examples of Synonyms for frank
Adjective
  • Omar has been an outspoken critic of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations surge in the Twin Cities, repeatedly calling for Noem’s impeachment.
    Molly Parks, The Washington Examiner, 28 Jan. 2026
  • In conversations with state lawmakers who have been outspoken on gun rights, and with two Idaho attorneys who focus on constitutional rights, the Idaho Statesman heard a range of reactions to Pretti’s shooting.
    Sarah Cutler, Idaho Statesman, 27 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Biery also took aim at administrative warrants, which federal immigration agents often use to make arrests and which do not require a judge’s signature.
    Zoe Sottile, CNN Money, 31 Jan. 2026
  • The impact of the funding lapse could be minimal if the House is able to quickly approve the legislation and get it to the president for his signature.
    CBS News, CBS News, 31 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • When night falls, head back to the food truck for a smashburger, jumbo hot dog, or one of the vegetarian options.
    Jenny Willden, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 Jan. 2026
  • Near the 10th green of the Lake Course, diners discover a cheeseburger shaped like a hot dog.
    Katie Sweeney, Forbes.com, 23 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • For 80 years, the city of Loveland has been offering people the chance to give their Valentine’s messages some TLC with its Valentine re-mailing program.
    Mindy Sink, Denver Post, 27 Jan. 2026
  • For those submitting paper returns, the IRS will consider them on time if they are correctly addressed, have sufficient postage, and are mailed and postmarked by the due date.
    Marley Malenfant, Austin American Statesman, 26 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Any chats about delicate topics may feel awkward, so begin with appreciation and keep questions open to invite honest replies.
    Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 31 Jan. 2026
  • The mother of three maintains open and honest communication within her own household of women in an attempt to change the narrative about physical and personal beauty standards.
    Tracy Wright, FOXNews.com, 31 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • The figures of frankfurters purchased were already piling up as the Twins took batting practice roughly 90 minutes before the 7:08 p.m. first pitch.
    Dan Hayes, New York Times, 27 Aug. 2025
  • Smack dab in the middle of hot dog season is a day to celebrate the frankfurter: National Hot Dog Day, which falls this year on Wednesday, July 16.
    Mike Snider, USA Today, 16 July 2025
Verb
  • Jeremiah Wilkinson led Georgia (16-6, 4-5) with 17 points and five assists while posting a career high in blocks (2).
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 1 Feb. 2026
  • Biel balanced both of her boys in her arms in an Instagram shared on her 40th birthday, also posting photos of the colorful birthday card and cake her kids made.
    Andrea Wurzburger, PEOPLE, 31 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Beijing is also candid — if selectively so — about its interest in strategic resources.
    Dewardric L. McNeal, CNBC, 11 Jan. 2026
  • Bird shared a candid carousel of photos from a fun night with friends, featuring her girlfriend by her side.
    Brendan Le, PEOPLE, 10 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Frank.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/frank. Accessed 1 Feb. 2026.

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