What does plainspoken mean?
Plainspoken describes speech, writing, or personal manner that is direct, candid, and easy to understand. It suggests that someone communicates without unnecessary jargon, ornament, or evasion. The term is often approving: a plainspoken explanation may be valued for its clarity, and a plainspoken person may be respected for honesty and lack of pretension. It can also carry a mildly critical implication, suggesting bluntness, awkwardness, or insufficient refinement. Although related to the broader idea of plain language, plainspoken more specifically emphasizes a straightforward manner of expression. The word is common in formal and informal English in both British and American usage, especially when discussing advice, testimony, explanations, and public communication.
adjectiveUsing straightforward, easily understood language; candid and unembellished in manner or expression.
- Using straightforward, easily understood language.
- Candid and direct in manner, without embellishment or evasion.
"Her plainspoken explanation made a difficult subject easy to understand."
"The witness gave a plainspoken account of what had happened."
"His plainspoken advice was exactly what she needed to hear."
Plainspoken can be a compliment or a criticism: it may celebrate clear communication or imply that someone lacks polish.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does plainspoken come from?
The word was formed in the early 17th century by combining plain with spoken. Plain entered Middle English from Anglo-Norman French and ultimately Latin planus, while spoken derives from speak, whose roots are traced to Old English. The compound therefore combines the idea of being clear or unadorned with that of being expressed in speech.
Related word forms
How plainspoken is actually used
Usually approving when describing clear, honest communication, though it can sometimes suggest bluntness, lack of tact, or an absence of rhetorical polish.
Easily confused with plainspoken
Plain describes language or an expression as simple and unadorned, whereas plainspoken describes a person, manner, or way of speaking as candid and direct.
Outspoken emphasizes openly expressing one's opinions, even controversial ones, while plainspoken primarily emphasizes clarity, candour, and lack of embellishment.