Definition of honestnext
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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective honest differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of honest are conscientious, honorable, just, scrupulous, and upright. While all these words mean "having or showing a strict regard for what is morally right," honest stresses adherence to such virtues as truthfulness, candor, or fairness.

known for being honest in business dealings

How do conscientious and scrupulous relate to one another, in the sense of honest?

Both conscientious and scrupulous imply an active moral sense governing all one's actions and painstaking efforts to follow one's conscience.

conscientious in the completion of her assignments
scrupulous in carrying out the terms of the will

When would honorable be a good substitute for honest?

The meanings of honorable and honest largely overlap; however, honorable suggests a firm holding to codes of right behavior and the guidance of a high sense of honor and duty.

a difficult but honorable decision

Where would just be a reasonable alternative to honest?

While the synonyms just and honest are close in meaning, just stresses conscious choice and regular practice of what is right or equitable.

workers given just compensation

When might upright be a better fit than honest?

The words upright and honest can be used in similar contexts, but upright implies a strict adherence to moral principles.

a stern and upright minister

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 honest If Rice and new running back Kenneth Walker can serve as the team’s early down answers that keep defenses honest, that should open up opportunity for Mahomes to finally see some open looks downfield again. Kansas City Star, 3 July 2026 Their interactions, both honest, serious and funny at the same time, had a unique screwball vibe. Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 3 July 2026 What moves audiences now is honest storytelling, cross-cultural collaboration, and artistic authenticity. Faye Bradley, Variety, 2 July 2026 Luckily, an honest conversation presents you with smarter options later in the day. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 1 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for honest
Recent Examples of Synonyms for honest
Adjective
  • The experience of Jack Ma illustrates the limits imposed on entrepreneurs who become too powerful or politically outspoken.
    Rainer Zitelmann, Fortune, 2 July 2026
  • The fact his reputation around the league points to him being outspoken cooled his value.
    Tony Jones, New York Times, 2 July 2026
Adjective
  • Manliness is a touchy subject these days, but there was a time when honorable combat was respected above the mere running of one’s mouth.
    Clarence Page, Chicago Tribune, 22 June 2026
  • And Florida passed only because one player made the honorable decision.
    David Mica, The Orlando Sentinel, 14 June 2026
Adjective
  • Thrive Market is an online, members-only marketplace that allows members to choose their favorite items from more than 5,000 products sourced from organic, sustainable and ethical brands.
    Rachel Cortez, USA Today, 4 July 2026
  • The nation's economy depends heavily on ethical diamond exports.
    Kate Matthams, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
Adjective
  • Michael Jackson and Lisa Marie Presley There may still be questions about whether the romance between Michael Jackson and Lisa Marie Presley was genuine, and their secret, quick-turn overseas wedding didn't help matters.
    Taijuan Moorman, USA Today, 3 July 2026
  • This is a film with genuine heart and authenticity that reflects modern Britain while speaking to audiences far beyond its borders.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 3 July 2026
Adjective
  • Readiness is an ongoing practice, not a declaration, determined by daily interactions and the safety to be candid.
    Tracy Lawrence, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
  • In April 2020, the pop superstar shared a candid photo of herself and Austin to her social media in honor of National Siblings Day.
    Bailey Bujnosek, InStyle, 2 July 2026
Adjective
  • Can its legions drink that much beer and still be conscientious enough to clear away the trash?
    Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 25 June 2026
  • Trea Turner was conscientious enough to wait for his double-play partner, Bryson Stott, who had authored one of the finest games of his career.
    Matt Gelb, New York Times, 24 June 2026
Adjective
  • His authentic character and fearlessness in the face of adversity will live on forever through this distinguished award.
    Tom Ignudo, CBS News, 1 July 2026
  • This authentic modeling is crucial for daughters to develop a healthy body image and break cycles of self-criticism.
    Maia Niguel Hoskin, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026
Adjective
  • Simple and truthful explanations build the psychological safety necessary for children building trusting relationships.
    Keisha M. Wint, The Conversation, 23 June 2026
  • And yet, the fight on Juneteenth was perhaps a more truthful reminder of the way things were, and how contingent the promises of American freedom could be.
    Vann R. Newkirk II, The Atlantic, 19 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Honest.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/honest. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.

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