Translation guide
Describes someone who is direct, honest, and clear in expressing their opinions or feelings, without hesitation or evasion.
To describe a person or their manner as straightforward and frank, often in a positive sense.
The most common and neutral word for 'forthright', meaning frank and straightforward. Can be used as a noun or na-adjective.
He gave a forthright opinion.
To be forthright, that's not a good idea.
Means open and unreserved, sometimes to the point of being blunt or lacking tact. Can have a slightly negative nuance if the directness is inappropriate.
I was surprised by her forthright way of speaking.
Means concise and to the point, without beating around the bush. Often used for statements or explanations.
His explanation was forthright and easy to understand.
An adverb meaning 'directly' or 'without mincing words', often used when someone hits the nail on the head.
To be forthright, you are wrong.
To describe a person's character as being consistently open and honest.
To describe an action done in a direct and unambiguous way.
An adverb meaning 'clearly' or 'plainly', often used when someone states something without ambiguity.
He forthrightly said no.
Literally 'with a single sword straight in', meaning to come straight to the point without preamble.
While 率直 is the closest equivalent, Japanese often expresses forthrightness through adverbial phrases like はっきりと or 率直に言って rather than a direct adjective. Using 率直な as a modifier is fine, but in many contexts, an adverbial expression sounds more natural.
率直 is generally positive, implying honesty with tact. あけすけ can imply a lack of restraint that may be seen as rude or too blunt. Use 率直 for a compliment; use あけすけ carefully as it may carry a negative connotation.
She gave a forthright answer.
I appreciate your forthright feedback.
She has a forthright personality and speaks her mind clearly to anyone.
To be forthright, that plan should be canceled.