Synonyms for

Honest

Verb / ˈɑ:nʌst / Another word for honest — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Honest means telling the truth, not lying, or being fair and just.

Synonyms & similar words

dependable reliable fair dishonest honorable true good truthful sincere upright credible trustworthy reliable fair ethical moral transparent genuine authentic forthright direct frank candid plain-spoken open aboveboard honorable

Synonyms by register

Formal

truthful upright veracious frank

Informal

straight up on the level straight-shooter no-nonsense

Literary

candid guileless plain-dealing

Antonyms

dishonest deceitful lying untruthful false insincere corrupt

Common collocations

  • honest mistake
  • honest opinion
  • honest work
  • honest living
  • honest appraisal
  • honest Abe
  • honest conversation

Word family

noun honesty
adverb honestly

Usage note

Honest implies a lack of deceit and a commitment to truth. It can also refer to something genuine or sincere, like an 'honest effort'.

Example sentences

  1. He was very honest when he told the truth about what happened.
  2. She always tries to be honest, even when it's hard.
  3. The honest thing to do was to return the lost wallet to its owner.
  4. It's important to be honest in all your dealings.
  5. He's an honest businessman who always keeps his promises.

Quotes

  • Honesty is the first chapter in the book of wisdom. - Thomas Jefferson
  • The foundation stones for a balanced success are honesty, character, integrity, faith, love, and loyalty. - Zig Ziglar
  • The best measure of a man's honesty isn't his income tax return. It's the zero adjust on his bathroom scale. - Arthur C. Clarke

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