candidly

[kan-did-lee]

adverb

1. in a frank, outspoken, straightforward way; openly and without holding back.

   We created a neutral space where everyone could speak candidly about race issues and also work side-by-side in "co-designing" solutions.

2. without any posing or scripting, and typically without the knowledge of the person being photographed or filmed.

   We are stealing from our subjects when we work candidly—stealing moments, expressions, emotions, positions, and movements.

3. fairly and impartially; honestly.

   “Look at these matters candidly, Mr. Editor,” wrote one subscriber.

Other Word Forms

• pseudocandidly adverb
• quasi-candidly adverb
• subcandidly adverb
• supercandidly adverb
• uncandidly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of candidly¹

candid ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Soon after Suede released its debut album, David Bowie told Anderson candidly: “Your playing and your songwriting’s so good that I know you’re going to be working in music for quite some time.”

From Los Angeles Times

“I felt gross about being in L.A. but also hopeful,” Russell says candidly on the realization that he was one of countless others here trying to make it.

From Los Angeles Times

And we rejoice a little too candidly about the merits of solitude in creative life.

From Los Angeles Times

True to its title, the book has Scotland's former first minister writing candidly about the highs and lows of her time in office including challenges she says had a serious impact on her mental health.

From BBC

She said she knew she was coming to the end of her life and she reflected candidly on what she felt she had learned.

From BBC

Related Words

• honestly 
• openly www.thesaurus.com
• sincerely 
• straight-out