candor
KAN-der
/ˈkændər/
The quality of being open, honest, and sincere in expression.
Implies refreshing, unvarnished honesty, often when presenting hard truths where dishonesty would be easier.
The story behind the word. berasal dari Latin 'candor' (whiteness, brightness). Roman political candidates wore brilliant white robes (toga candida) to signify clean motives, linking whiteness with untainted truth.
Word relationships
- frankness: Frankness can border on bluntness, whereas candor emphasizes purity of intention.
- openness: Openness refers to willingness to share; candor refers specifically to truthful disclosure.
- deceit: Deceit actively misleadingly conceals truth, whereas candor discloses it directly.
- evasiveness: Evasiveness avoids answering directly, while candor addresses reality head-on.
Commonly confused with
- candida: Candida is a genus of yeasts, whereas candor is the noun meaning honesty.
Word family
- candid (adjective): Truthful and straightforward.
- candidly (adverb): In an honest and direct manner.
Collocations
- refreshing candor
- speak with candor
- admirable candor
- brutal candor
Idioms & expressions
- in all candor
Example sentences
- "The CEO spoke with unexpected candor about the company's financial missteps during the annual shareholder meeting." Corporate leadership during crisis
- "He had a natural candor that immediately disarmed everyone who met him." Literary citation on personal character
Memory hook
Think of CAN-DOOR: opening the door of your mind completely so people can see inside. Shining light on the whole truth.
When not to use
Avoid using for simple factual accuracy; reserve it for emotional or opinions-based openness.
Fun facts
- The word 'candidate' shares the exact same Latin root because Roman office-seekers wore bright white robes.
Related words
Explore more words
candid, sincere, forthright, transparent, disingenuous, veracity
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