Word
率直
Meaning in Englishfrank, candid, straightforward, openhearted, direct, outspoken
Animated kanji stroke order
Word context
What it means
率直 means frank, direct, and open expression, conveying opinions plainly without hedging.
Main meanings
- frankness in expressing opinions without hedging
- directness or blunt clarity in speech or writing
- the quality of speaking plainly, often with a respectful tone
How to use it
Used in formal and informal contexts to describe or request straightforwardness; common constructions include 率直に言う and 率直な意見; usage notes emphasize maintaining politeness when necessary.
Variants and close terms
- 正直 (shoujiki) — direct honesty
- 直言 (chokugen) — direct stating
- 露骨 (rokotsu) — bluntness
Composition
- 率: tendency, rate, or lead; in this word it hints at the manner of expression
- 直: straight, direct; the core meaning is straightness in thought and speech
Etymology
率 and 直 combine in this kanji compound to express directness of expression.
Word class
na-adjective (形容動詞)