Words / C1

owt-SPOHK-uh-n/ˌaʊtˈspəʊkən/

Outspoken means saying your views plainly, even if they shock: an outspoken critic, outspoken remarks. Frank and blunt (already in the dictionary) are cousins; rude is the insult if manners fail. Do not call an accurate minute outspoken as a way to bury it.

Meaning

Saying what you think clearly, even if it shocks or offends.

Examples

• “An outspoken minute still has to be accurate about the n.”
• “Frank is everyday. Blunt is harsher. Tactful sits opposite. Vocal can mean simply loud. Honesty about the count is a duty, not a personality type to be managed away.”

Good to know

Frank, even blunt, in speech. Everyday: frank. Cousin: blunt (already in the dictionary). Accuracy is not a tone problem.

Near in meaning

blunt

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