forthright
FORTH-ryt
/ˈfɔːrθraɪt/
Direct and outspoken; straightforward and honest.
Combines direct direction (moving straight forward) with fearless honesty.
The story behind the word. Originally an Old English adverb describing physical straight motion. By the 16th century, it shifted metaphorically to describe someone who walks straight up to you and speaks the truth without swerving.
Word relationships
- direct: Direct describes path of delivery; forthright adds courage and lack of hesitation.
- candid: Candid focuses on truthfulness; forthright emphasizes active, bold delivery.
- secretive: Secretive conceals information actively.
- devious: Devious uses indirect, dishonest routes.
Commonly confused with
- forthwith: Forthwith means immediately, while forthright means direct and honest.
Word family
- forthrightly (adverb): In a direct and fearless manner.
- forthrightness (noun): The quality of direct honesty.
Collocations
- forthright manner
- forthright response
- forthright honesty
- be forthright with
Idioms & expressions
- straight to the point
Example sentences
- "The director was forthright about the operational challenges facing the department." Executive leadership
- "I appreciate her forthright answers during such a stressful interview." Interviews
Memory hook
FORTH (forward) + RIGHT (straight): moving straight forward into the truth. Marching straight to the point.
When not to use
Avoid when describing physical directions; it now almost exclusively applies to communication style.
Fun facts
- In Middle English, forthright could also mean a straight path through a forest.
Related words
Also appears in
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