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straightforward

B2
Fairly common

Pronunciation

UK

  • /streɪtfˈɔːwəd/

US

  • /ˈstreɪtˈfɔrwərd/

Meanings

Adjective

  1. easy to understand, do, or deal with because it is uncomplicated

  2. honest, direct, and not evasive in speech or manner

Beyond the definition

Imagine trying to build with LEGO bricks - sometimes the instructions are complicated, full of tiny pictures and confusing steps. But straightforward instructions? They are clear, simple, and easy to follow. That is the heart of the word: something direct, honest, and without hidden meaning or extra difficulty.

A straightforward person says what they mean, and a straightforward plan is easy to understand and carry out. If your boss asks for a straightforward answer, do not avoid the point - just tell the truth. It can also describe something uncomplicated; a straightforward path is one without twists or turns. Think of it as the most direct route from point A to point B.

Examples

  1. 1

    Instructions

    The instructions are straightforward, so you should be able to follow them without help.

  2. 2

    Online account

    It should be straightforward to change your password online.

  3. 3

    Exam difficulty

    The first part of the exam was straightforward, but the last question was harder.

  4. 4

    Explanation

    She gave a straightforward explanation of how the system works.

More examples
  1. 5

    Direct answer

    He asked for a straightforward answer: yes or no.

  2. 6

    Honest admission

    She's usually very straightforward about her mistakes.

  3. 7

    Open honesty

    I'll be straightforward with you: we need more time to finish this.

    • Patternbe straightforward with + person

      speak openly and honestly to them

See also

Similar

Shades of meaning

Contrast

Used with (collocations)

  • straightforward answer
  • straightforward process
  • straightforward explanation
  • fairly straightforward

Word family

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Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • straightforwardadjective