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Glite Dictionary
free-spoken

free-spoken

7.1
Speaking in a direct and open way without hiding opinions
  • adjective
  • /friːˈspoʊkən/
  • Archaic
translation icon : franco
  • The free-spoken journalist quickly gained a reputation for honest and direct reporting.

Examples

  • She is known for her free-spoken nature, always expressing her opinions honestly and directly.

  • He has always been free-spoken, never hesitating to share his true thoughts and opinions.

  • Her free-spoken comments surprised the committee members who were used to more guarded language.

  • She is known for being free-spoken.

  • His free-spoken nature often surprises people.

  • His free-spoken critique of the movie surprised everyone, as he did not hold back on his thoughts.

  • In meetings, her free-spoken comments often lead to open discussions about sensitive topics.

Synonyms

frank
vsfree-spoken
104 3.4

Open and honest when giving opinions or feelings

is similar but stresses unreserved bluntness rather than nuance
blunt
vsfree-spoken
100 3.8

Speaking in a direct, plain way that can sound rude

is direct but is less likely to sound rude
vocal
vsfree-spoken
87 4.9

Saying opinions clearly and strongly in public

is direct speech rather than public insistence
candid
vsfree-spoken
83 4.6

Open and honest, telling the truth even when it is hard

is direct generally rather than focusing on difficult disclosure
outspoken
vsfree-spoken
78 4.2

To speak freely and directly about opinions or feelings

is direct and unreserved in general speech without subtlety
forthright
vsfree-spoken
32 5.5

Being direct and honest when talking or acting

is similar but less formal and equally unreserved
point-blank
vsfree-spoken
19 5.6

Direct and blunt without trying to hide the truth

is direct speech but not necessarily as confrontational
plainspoken
vsfree-spoken
3 4.3

Speaking simply and honestly without hiding meaning

is more about simple wording than emotional bluntness
straight-from-the-shoulder
vsfree-spoken
  • Informal
7.7

Direct and honest in speech that does not hide what you think

is identical in meaning, describing direct unreserved speech

Antonyms

evasive
25 7.3

Not giving a direct answer to hide the truth or avoid commitment

tactful
11 4.0

Being careful and polite when speaking to avoid hurting people

reserved
3.7

Not willing to show feelings or talk much

How Frank

blunt
100 3.8
outspoken
78 4.2
free-spoken
  • Archaic
7.1
candid
83 4.6
frank
104 3.4

Surface Forms

free-spoken positive

Etymology

Free-spoken comes from the parts free ('not controlled') and spoken ('said aloud'), so picture someone whose words are not tied by chains. That's why free-spoken means speaking in a direct, honest way without hiding your thoughts.