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Definition of frankly

frankly

/ˈfræŋ.kli/
frank · ly
Adjective:frank
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frankly Lexical Profile

frankly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In an open, honest, and direct manner, without hiding one's true thoughts or feelings.

Example

"The committee members spoke frankly about the financial challenges facing the institution."

2

In truth; used as a sentence modifier to emphasize that one is stating a candid or potentially unwelcome opinion.

Example

"Frankly, the proposed schedule does not leave enough time for thorough testing."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for frankly
Antonyms
View all antonyms for frankly

• Rhymes for frankly

• Nearby Words

frankland
franklin
franklinia
frankly
frankness
franks
frantic

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the adjective 'frank' plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'. The root 'frank' comes from Old French 'franc' (free, sincere), which originally referred to a member of the Germanic Franks, who held the status of free citizens in conquered Gaul.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Frankly. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/frankly
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