Top 40 Slang For Candor – Meaning & Usage

Slang for candor is all about speaking your mind with honesty and authenticity. In a world full of filters and facades, it’s refreshing to embrace language that cuts through the noise and gets straight to the point. Join us as we uncover the top slang terms that celebrate raw truth and genuine communication. Get ready to spice up your conversations and add a dash of candor to your daily interactions!

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1. Straight shooter

A “straight shooter” is someone who is direct, honest, and doesn’t hold back their opinions or thoughts. They are known for their candor and straightforwardness.

For example, “I appreciate that he’s a straight shooter and always tells me the truth.”
In a workplace setting, someone might say, “We need a straight shooter on our team to give us honest feedback.”
A friend might describe another friend as, “She’s a straight shooter, she never sugarcoats anything.”

2. No filter

When someone has “no filter,” it means they don’t censor themselves and say exactly what’s on their mind, regardless of how it may be received. They are known for their straightforwardness and lack of inhibition in expressing their thoughts.

For instance, “He has no filter and always speaks his mind, even if it’s controversial.”
In a social setting, someone might say, “She’s hilarious because she has no filter and says whatever comes to her mind.”
A colleague might describe a coworker as, “He’s known for his no-filter approach in meetings, which can be refreshing or shocking.”

3. Tell it like it is

To “tell it like it is” means to speak in a straightforward and honest manner, without sugarcoating or holding back. It implies a directness and candor in expressing one’s thoughts or opinions.

For example, “I appreciate that she always tells it like it is, even if it’s not what I want to hear.”
In a conversation about a difficult situation, someone might say, “Let’s cut through the BS and tell it like it is.”
A parent might advise their child, “Always tell it like it is, even if it’s hard. Honesty is important.”

4. Lay it on the line

To “lay it on the line” means to be brutally honest and straightforward in one’s communication. It implies a directness and frankness in expressing opinions or thoughts.

For instance, “He laid it on the line and told me exactly what he thought about my idea.”
In a discussion about a controversial topic, someone might say, “Let’s lay it on the line and have an open, honest conversation.”
A coach might encourage their team, “It’s time to lay it on the line and give it everything we’ve got.”

5. Shoot straight

To “shoot straight” means to speak directly and honestly without beating around the bush or using euphemisms. It implies a no-nonsense approach to communication and a preference for straightforwardness.

For example, “I like that he shoots straight and doesn’t waste time with small talk.”
In a business meeting, someone might say, “Let’s shoot straight and get to the heart of the matter.”
A friend might encourage another friend, “Just shoot straight with me. I can handle the truth.”

6. Keep it real

To “keep it real” means to be honest and authentic in your thoughts, actions, and words. It is a way of encouraging others to be genuine and not pretend or deceive.

For example, a friend might say, “I appreciate your advice, but just keep it real with me.”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might say, “If you want it to work, you have to keep it real with each other.”
In a discussion about self-improvement, someone might advise, “To grow as a person, you have to keep it real with yourself and acknowledge your flaws.”

7. Call a spade a spade

To “call a spade a spade” means to speak directly and honestly, even if it may be considered blunt or offensive. It is a way of avoiding sugarcoating or using euphemisms.

For instance, if someone is being rude, you might say, “Let’s call a spade a spade – you’re being rude.”
In a discussion about a controversial topic, someone might say, “We need to call a spade a spade and acknowledge the real issues.”
In a conversation about someone’s behavior, you might say, “I’m not going to sugarcoat it, you were in the wrong. Let’s call a spade a spade.”

8. Pull no punches

To “pull no punches” means to be completely honest and direct, without holding back any criticism or negative feedback. It is a way of expressing candor and not sugarcoating the truth.

For example, in a performance review, a manager might say, “I’m going to pull no punches – your work has not been up to par.”
In a debate, someone might say, “I’m going to pull no punches and challenge your argument.”
In a conversation with a friend, you might say, “I’m going to pull no punches – your behavior was unacceptable.”

9. Cut the crap

To “cut the crap” means to stop engaging in unnecessary or deceptive behavior and get to the point. It is a way of expressing frustration with someone’s dishonesty or avoidance of the truth.

For instance, if someone is rambling without making any sense, you might say, “Cut the crap and tell me what you really mean.”
In a discussion about a problem, someone might say, “Let’s cut the crap and focus on finding a solution.”
In a conversation with a friend who keeps making excuses, you might say, “Enough with the excuses, cut the crap and take responsibility.”

10. Speak one’s mind

To “speak one’s mind” means to express one’s thoughts, opinions, or feelings openly and honestly. It is a way of encouraging others to share their true thoughts without fear of judgment.

For example, in a group discussion, someone might say, “Don’t be afraid to speak your mind and share your ideas.”
In a debate, someone might say, “I’m going to speak my mind and present my arguments.”
In a conversation about personal boundaries, you might say, “It’s important to speak your mind and communicate your needs.”

11. Keep no secrets

This phrase emphasizes the importance of being open and transparent, without hiding any information or keeping any secrets.

For example, a friend might say, “I trust you, so please keep no secrets from me.”
In a business setting, a manager might encourage their team to “keep no secrets and communicate openly.”
A person might use this phrase to express their desire for honesty in a relationship, saying, “In this relationship, we should keep no secrets.”

12. Give it to me straight

This expression means to provide information or feedback in a direct and honest manner, without sugarcoating or beating around the bush.

For instance, if someone asks, “How do I look in this outfit?” a friend might respond, “Honestly, it doesn’t flatter you. I’ll help you find something better.”
In a professional context, a boss might say, “I appreciate your input, but please give it to me straight.”
A person might use this phrase when seeking advice, saying, “I need someone to give it to me straight. Am I making the right decision?”

13. Say it like it is

This phrase encourages straightforward and honest communication, without any embellishments or euphemisms.

For example, if someone asks for feedback on their presentation, a colleague might say, “You did well, but let me say it like it is: the slides were confusing.”
In a political discussion, a person might argue, “We need leaders who are willing to say it like it is, even if it’s uncomfortable.”
A friend might use this phrase to express their preference for honesty, saying, “I appreciate when people say it like it is.”

14. Shoot from the hip

This expression refers to speaking or acting impulsively and without careful consideration or planning.

For instance, if someone asks for your opinion on a controversial topic, you might say, “I’m just going to shoot from the hip and say what I really think.”
In a debate, a participant might criticize their opponent’s arguments by saying, “They’re just shooting from the hip without any evidence.”
A person might use this phrase to describe their own communication style, saying, “I tend to shoot from the hip, but I’m working on being more thoughtful in my responses.”

15. Be upfront

This phrase encourages being open, honest, and direct in one’s communication or actions.

For example, if someone asks about your availability for a meeting, you might say, “I’ll be upfront with you, I have a prior commitment.”
In a job interview, a candidate might emphasize their ability to be upfront about their strengths and weaknesses.
A person might use this phrase to express their desire for honesty in a relationship, saying, “I appreciate when my partner is upfront with me about their feelings.”

16. Spill the beans

This phrase is used when someone discloses information that was meant to be kept secret or private.

For example, “I can’t believe she spilled the beans about our surprise party.”
In a discussion about a company merger, someone might say, “I heard they’re about to spill the beans on the new partnership.”
A friend might ask, “Come on, spill the beans! What happened on your date last night?”

17. Speak freely

This phrase is used to encourage someone to share their thoughts or opinions openly and honestly.

For instance, during a group discussion, someone might say, “Feel free to speak freely and share your ideas.”
In a political debate, a candidate might declare, “I will always speak freely about the issues that matter to me.”
A friend might say, “This is a safe space, so feel free to speak freely about how you’re feeling.”

18. Be frank

This phrase is used to encourage someone to be direct and honest in their communication.

For example, during a performance review, a manager might say, “I appreciate your work, but I need you to be frank with me about any challenges you’re facing.”
In a conversation about personal growth, someone might advise, “To grow as a person, you must be frank with yourself about your strengths and weaknesses.”
A parent might say to their child, “I want you to be frank with me if something is bothering you.”

19. Let it all hang out

This phrase is used to encourage someone to be completely uninhibited and share their true thoughts and feelings.

For instance, during a therapy session, a therapist might say, “This is a safe space, so feel free to let it all hang out.”
In a discussion about a controversial topic, someone might declare, “I’m going to let it all hang out and speak my mind.”
A friend might say, “We’re all friends here, so let it all hang out and tell us what you really think.”

20. Speak your mind

This phrase is used to encourage someone to freely share their thoughts and opinions without holding back.

For example, during a team meeting, a leader might say, “I want everyone to feel comfortable speaking their mind and contributing to the discussion.”
In a political debate, a candidate might assert, “I will always speak my mind, even if it’s not the popular opinion.”
A friend might say, “Don’t be afraid to speak your mind and let us know how you really feel.”

21. No beating around the bush

This phrase means to speak directly and honestly without any unnecessary or vague language. It is used to encourage someone to be straightforward and not waste time with unnecessary details or beating around the bush.

For example, during a meeting, someone might say, “Let’s not beat around the bush. We need to address the issue head-on.”
When discussing a sensitive topic, a person might say, “I appreciate your candor. Please, no beating around the bush.”
In a conversation about giving feedback, someone might advise, “When providing constructive criticism, it’s important to be direct and not beat around the bush.”

22. Put it all on the table

This phrase means to reveal or share everything, without holding back any information or opinions. It is used to encourage open and honest communication, where nothing is left unsaid.

For instance, in a team meeting, a manager might say, “Let’s put it all on the table. What are the issues we need to address?”
When discussing personal experiences, someone might say, “I decided to put it all on the table and share my struggles with mental health.”
In a relationship, a partner might say, “We need to put it all on the table and talk about our concerns and expectations.”

23. Keep it honest

This phrase is a simple reminder to always be honest and sincere in your communication. It emphasizes the importance of truthfulness and authenticity.

For example, when discussing a controversial topic, someone might say, “Let’s keep it honest and respect different perspectives.”
In a conversation about personal growth, a person might say, “I’ve learned that the key to self-improvement is to keep it honest with yourself.”
When giving advice, someone might say, “I’ll keep it honest with you. You need to work on your time management skills.”

24. Don’t sugarcoat it

This phrase means to speak in a straightforward and direct manner without softening or minimizing the truth. It is used to encourage someone to be honest, even if the truth may be difficult to hear.

For instance, when discussing a performance issue, a manager might say, “Don’t sugarcoat it. Let the employee know where they need to improve.”
In a conversation about a challenging situation, someone might say, “I need you to be honest and not sugarcoat the reality of the situation.”
When giving feedback, a person might say, “I appreciate your input, but please don’t sugarcoat it. I want to know the truth.”

25. Lay the cards on the table

This phrase means to disclose or reveal everything, without holding back any important information or intentions. It is used to encourage transparency and openness in communication.

For example, when discussing a business deal, someone might say, “Let’s lay the cards on the table and discuss all the terms and conditions.”
In a personal conversation, someone might say, “I think it’s time to lay the cards on the table and talk about our future.”
When resolving a conflict, a mediator might say, “Both parties need to lay their cards on the table and express their concerns openly.”

26. Tell it straight

This phrase means to speak honestly and directly without sugarcoating or holding back.

For example, “I appreciate it when people tell it straight and don’t beat around the bush.”
In a discussion about feedback, someone might say, “If you want to improve, you need someone who will tell it straight.”
A friend might say, “I know you don’t want to hear it, but I have to tell it straight – that outfit does not suit you.”

27. Be brutally honest

This expression emphasizes the need for complete honesty, even if the truth may be unpleasant or difficult to hear.

For instance, “I need you to be brutally honest with me – does this haircut look good?”
In a discussion about relationships, someone might advise, “Sometimes you have to be brutally honest with your partner for the sake of clarity.”
A coworker might say, “I appreciate your brutal honesty, even if it stings a little.”

28. Don’t hold back

This phrase encourages someone to express themselves freely and openly without holding back.

For example, “When we’re brainstorming ideas, don’t hold back – share any and all thoughts.”
In a debate, someone might say, “We need to have an open discussion where everyone can speak their mind and not hold back.”
A friend might encourage you, “When it comes to giving feedback, don’t hold back – I want to know how I can improve.”

29. Shoot the breeze

This phrase means to have a relaxed and informal conversation, often about trivial or unimportant topics.

For instance, “Let’s meet up for coffee and shoot the breeze.”
In a social setting, someone might ask, “Anyone want to shoot the breeze and talk about movies?”
A coworker might say, “I enjoy shooting the breeze with my colleagues during lunch breaks.”

30. No holds barred

This expression means to do or say something without any restrictions or limitations, often used to describe a situation where anything goes.

For example, “In this debate, it’s no holds barred – say whatever you want.”
In a competition, someone might say, “In this race, it’s no holds barred – give it everything you’ve got.”
A friend might say, “When it comes to planning our trip, let’s have a no holds barred discussion – we can consider any destination.”

31. Let the cat out of the bag

To let the cat out of the bag means to reveal a secret or disclose information that was meant to be kept hidden. The phrase is often used when someone unintentionally reveals something that was supposed to be a surprise or kept confidential.

For example, “I accidentally let the cat out of the bag and told Sarah about the surprise party.”
In a movie plot, a character might say, “If you let the cat out of the bag, the whole plan will be ruined.”
A friend might warn another, “Be careful not to let the cat out of the bag about the surprise vacation.”

32. Level with someone

To level with someone means to be completely honest and straightforward with them. It implies speaking openly and candidly without any hidden agenda or deception.

For instance, “I decided to level with my friend and tell her the truth about what happened.”
In a serious conversation, one person might say, “Let’s level with each other and have an honest discussion about our relationship.”
A parent might tell their child, “It’s important to level with me if something is bothering you.”

33. Lay your cards on the table

To lay your cards on the table means to be open and honest about your intentions, feelings, or information. It suggests revealing everything and not holding back any important details.

For example, “Before we proceed, let’s lay our cards on the table and discuss our expectations.”
In a negotiation, one party might say, “It’s time to lay our cards on the table and disclose our bottom line.”
A friend might encourage another, “If you want to resolve the issue, you need to lay your cards on the table and express how you truly feel.”

34. Give it to someone straight

To give it to someone straight means to tell them the truth directly, without sugarcoating or beating around the bush. It implies being frank and straightforward in communication.

For instance, “I appreciate when people give it to me straight instead of hiding the truth.”
In a difficult conversation, one person might say, “I’m going to give it to you straight, even if it’s not what you want to hear.”
A boss might tell their employee, “I respect your work, but I need to give it to you straight – your performance needs improvement.”

35. Open up

To open up means to share one’s thoughts, feelings, or personal experiences honestly and openly. It suggests being vulnerable and willing to express oneself without reservations.

For example, “It took a while, but she finally opened up and told me about her past.”
In a therapy session, a person might say, “I’m ready to open up and discuss my struggles.”
A friend might encourage another, “If you want support, you need to open up and let us know what you’re going through.”

36. Get real

This phrase is used to encourage someone to be honest or to face reality. It often implies that the person is not being truthful or is avoiding the truth.

For example, if someone is making excuses for their behavior, you might say, “Get real and admit what you did.”
In a discussion about a difficult situation, someone might say, “We need to get real about the challenges we’re facing.”
A person might use this phrase to express frustration with someone who is not being honest, saying, “I wish they would just get real and tell me the truth.”

37. Be candid

To be candid means to speak honestly and openly, without holding back or sugarcoating. It implies that the person is expressing their true thoughts and feelings.

For instance, if someone asks for your opinion, you might say, “I’ll be candid and tell you what I really think.”
During a team meeting, a leader might encourage their team members to be candid, saying, “We need everyone to be candid and share their ideas.”
A person might use this phrase to express their desire for others to be honest with them, saying, “I appreciate it when people are candid with me.”

38. Spill your guts

This phrase is used to encourage someone to share their deepest thoughts, feelings, or secrets. It implies that the person is holding back or keeping something hidden.

For example, if a friend seems upset but won’t talk about it, you might say, “Come on, spill your guts. What’s really going on?”
During a therapy session, a therapist might encourage their client to spill their guts and open up about their experiences.
A person might use this phrase to express their frustration with someone who is not being open or honest, saying, “I wish they would just spill their guts and tell me what’s really going on.”

39. Tell the whole truth

This phrase is used to emphasize the importance of being completely honest and not leaving out any details or information. It implies that the person should not withhold or distort the truth.

For instance, if someone is testifying in court, they might be asked to swear to tell the whole truth.
In a conversation about a difficult situation, someone might say, “I need you to tell me the whole truth, even if it’s hard to hear.”
A person might use this phrase to express their expectation of honesty, saying, “I always strive to tell the whole truth in every situation.”

40. Be transparent

To be transparent means to be open and honest, without hiding or concealing anything. It implies that the person is willing to share information and be accountable for their actions.

For example, if someone is asked about their financial situation, they might be encouraged to be transparent and provide all the necessary details.
In a business setting, a company might strive to be transparent with their customers by openly sharing information about their products and practices.
A person might use this phrase to express their desire for honesty and openness in a relationship, saying, “I value a partner who is transparent with me.”