straightforward
strayt-FOR-werd
/ˌstreɪtˈfɔːrwərd/
Uncomplicated and easy to understand; honest and frank.
Applies equally well to simple tasks/processes and to clear, direct people.
The story behind the word. A native English compound meaning moving directly ahead without turns or deviations. It migrated into English character descriptions to mark people who don't take sneaky detours in speech.
Word relationships
- simple: Simple means lacking complexity; straightforward means clear and direct without hidden snags.
- candid: Candid focuses on emotional honesty; straightforward focuses on clarity and lack of complication.
- convoluted: Convoluted means extremely complex and twisted.
- devious: Devious means dishonestly indirect.
Commonly confused with
- straightaway: Straightaway means immediately; straightforward means simple and direct.
Word family
- straightforwardly (adverb): In a direct and clear manner.
- straightforwardness (noun): The state of being direct and clear.
Collocations
- straightforward process
- straightforward approach
- straightforward answer
- fairly straightforward
Idioms & expressions
- straight shooter
Example sentences
- "The assembly instructions were straightforward and easy to follow." Instructions
- "She gave a straightforward answer without dodging any awkward questions." Personal communication
Memory hook
STRAIGHT + FORWARD: walking straight forward without winding curves. Direct route, zero detours.
When not to use
Avoid when describing highly complex, multi-layered philosophical ideas.
Fun facts
- In modern business English, straightforward is one of the top praised attributes in management reviews.
Related words
Explore more words
forthright, candid, unpretentious, transparent, trustworthy, intuitive
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