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.
To describe a person's character as being consistently open and honest.
A forthright person. This is the standard way to describe someone with this trait.
彼はとても率直な人だ。
He is a very forthright person.
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.
彼ははっきりとノーと言った。
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.
彼女は率直な答えをした。
She gave a forthright answer.
率直なご意見に感謝します。
I appreciate your forthright feedback.
彼は率直な意見を述べた。
He gave a forthright opinion.
率直に言って、それは良い考えではない。
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.
彼女のあけすけな物言いには驚いた。
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.
彼の説明は端的でわかりやすかった。
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.
ずばり言うと、君は間違っている。
To be forthright, you are wrong.
Literally 'not afraid of things', meaning bold and unhesitant in expressing oneself, often in challenging situations.
彼女は物怖じしない性格で、誰にでもはっきり意見を言う。
She has a forthright personality and speaks her mind clearly to anyone.
単刀直入に申し上げますと、その計画は中止すべきです。
To be forthright, that plan should be canceled.