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 But when a friend who turned 15 started applying for work, Njea had to be honest. ABC News, 18 June 2026 The mature, honest dialogue offers a sense of resolve, ushering you into a pleasant space that stimulates you to nurture yourself. Lisa Stardust, Vogue, 18 June 2026 But now, throughout the season, she is allowed to explore her softness, she’s allowed to, with Bea and with herself and with Ivanna, explore her real desires and vulnerability and softness in an honest way that transcends gender and what a woman is supposed to be. Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 17 June 2026 March 21 – April 19 Creative risks lead to honest smiles. Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for honest
Recent Examples of Synonyms for honest
Adjective
  • During the primary the two contenders agreed on most issues, but Valdez argued throughout the campaign that Reynoso wasn't outspoken enough.
    Phillip M. Bailey, USA Today, 24 June 2026
  • Jackie and Shadow became internet sensations thanks to the live webcams maintained in their nest by nonprofit organization Friends of Big Bear Valley, which is an outspoken voice for conserving eagle habitat.
    Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 24 June 2026
Adjective
  • And Florida passed only because one player made the honorable decision.
    David Mica, The Orlando Sentinel, 14 June 2026
  • Granger's intentions are honorable, and O'Donnell sparks his performance with life, making his tragic end that much more gutting.
    Eric Farwell, Entertainment Weekly, 12 June 2026
Adjective
  • The whole industry poses significant ethical risks.
    Will Barker, TheWeek, 25 June 2026
  • Under his direction, Cathay debuted the Aria Suite—a reimagining of premium travel—alongside the global 'Where Artistry Takes Flight' campaign, where the airline partnered with an ethical AI platform to create an interactive art tool.
    Slma Shelbayah, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026
Adjective
  • The family of a 26-year-old man who was shot and killed in Fort Worth last week remembers his bright smile and genuine laugh.
    Shambhavi Rimal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 23 June 2026
  • The film, based on Thomas Perry’s novel Strip, wears its influences — ranging from Elmore Leonard to Carl Hiaasen to Quentin Tarantino — heavily, without the genuine wit of many of its predecessors.
    Frank Scheck, HollywoodReporter, 22 June 2026
Adjective
  • In the months since James' death, Kimberly has been candid about her grief and how the Van Der Beek family is working to keep his memory alive.
    Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 21 June 2026
  • Infante reported in 2024 that Smith was to meet with Jacksonville Jaguars’ and Las Vegas Raiders’ rookie classes to offer mentorship and candid insights about his own jagged trail.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 20 June 2026
Adjective
  • In addition to conscientious UV protection, Hall recommends that patients with aging skin prioritize hydration and skin-barrier support.
    Jenny Berg, Glamour, 22 June 2026
  • After a two-year National Service stint as a hospital orderly (thanks to his own conscientious-objector status), Hockney landed at the Royal College of Art, in London, in the fall of 1959.
    Mark Rozzo, Vanity Fair, 12 June 2026
Adjective
  • The renovation masterfully blends contemporary comforts with the Inn's historic character, aiming for a sophisticated yet authentic residential feel.
    Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner, Forbes.com, 20 June 2026
  • For Edwards, the reaction reinforced why authentic storytelling matters more than ever, especially in her field of work.
    Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 20 June 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 27 Jun. 2026.

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