candid

/ˈkændɪd/

Say it: KAN-did

1. adjective Truthful and straightforward; saying what you genuinely think.
She gave a candid assessment of the company's challenges.
2. adjective Describing a photograph taken informally, without the subject posing for the camera.
The wedding album featured a mix of formal portraits and lively candid shots from the reception.

📖 Seen in the wild

Her candid remarks about the company's struggles were appreciated by the board.
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✏️ candid in a sentence

In a candid interview, the CEO admitted that recent mistakes had been costly.
I need your candid feedback on this proposal, so please don't hold back.
His blog is known for its candid and often humorous take on modern politics.
The documentary offers a candid glimpse into the artist's private life.
Let's have a candid conversation about what's not working in our team.
To be perfectly candid, I was disappointed with the final result.

🔁 Synonyms & antonyms

frank forthright outspoken honest upfront direct sincere straightforward

frank · suggests a more direct and sometimes blunt honesty.

forthright · implies speaking directly and without hesitation, often about a difficult topic.

outspoken · describes someone who speaks their mind boldly and frequently, especially on controversial issues.

honest · a broader term for truthfulness; 'candid' is a specific type of honesty that involves open expression.

Opposites: guarded, evasive, secretive, insincere, deceitful

🌱 Where it comes from

The word 'candid' comes from the Latin 'candidus', meaning 'white' or 'gleaming'. In ancient Rome, men running for public office wore white togas, called 'toga candida', to symbolize their purity and honesty. This association with political candidates gave us the word 'candidate' and linked the idea of whiteness with sincerity, which evolved into the modern meaning of being frank and open.

🧩 How it's used

Common patterns:

candid conversationcandid feedbackcandid assessmentcandid interviewcandid photographbrutally candid

'Candid' carries a connotation of refreshing, impartial honesty. It's a step beyond just being truthful; it implies a willingness to be open even when it's difficult. While 'frank' can sometimes suggest tactlessness, 'candid' usually feels more constructive and sincere. It is well-suited for professional contexts where direct but respectful communication is valued, such as in 'candid feedback' or a 'candid assessment'.

Word family: candidly, candor

💬 Quick answers

What does 'candid' mean in simple terms?

It means being honest and direct, saying what you really think. It can also describe a photo taken naturally, without the subject posing.

What is the difference between 'candid' and 'frank'?

'Candid' suggests a pure, impartial openness, while 'frank' can imply a more blunt or forceful directness. Both mean honest, but 'candid' often feels more sincere and less aggressive.

Is being candid a good or bad thing?

It is generally seen as a positive trait, implying sincerity and honesty. However, being too candid without regard for others' feelings can be perceived as tactless or insensitive.

What is a candid photo?

A candid photo is one taken when the subject is not posing for the camera. The aim is to capture a genuine, un-staged moment.

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