Synonyms for

Honestly

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

Definition

In a truthful, sincere, and frank manner

Synonyms & similar words

aboveboard candidly dishonestly frankly sincerely truly candidly frankly openly forthrightly directly genuinely plainly truthfully veraciously authentically trustworthily dependably loyally reliably uncloaked unrestrained upfront

Synonyms by register

Formal

truthfully veraciously frankly candidly

Informal

straight up no joke for real seriously

Literary

verily in truth

Antonyms

dishonestly falsely deceitfully treacherously insincerely mendaciously

Common collocations

  • honestly speaking
  • to be honest
  • honestly, I don't know
  • honestly, it's difficult
  • honestly, I think
  • honestly, you should

Word family

noun honesty
adjective honest
adverb honestly

Usage note

Often used to emphasize sincerity or truthfulness, sometimes as a mild interjection to express surprise or frustration.

Example sentences

  1. Honestly, I don't like broccoli.
  2. She spoke honestly about her feelings.
  3. I can honestly say that I've never lied to you.
  4. I honestly don't know the answer to that question.
  5. He looked at her honestly, without any pretense.

Quotes

  • Honestly is the best policy.
  • Honesty is the first chapter in the book of wisdom.
  • Honesty is the rarest wealth anyone can possess, and yet all the honesty in the world ain't lawful tender for a loaf of bread.

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