What does 'frankness bluntness' mean in a crossword context?

In crosswords, 'frankness bluntness' typically points to a word that describes a direct, honest, and often unreserved manner of speaking or acting. It can imply a lack of subtlety or politeness for the sake of truth.

Are there common synonyms for 'frankness bluntness' used in crosswords?

Yes, common synonyms include CANDOR, BLUNTNESS, OPENNESS, HONESTY, and DIRECTNESS. The specific answer depends on the number of letters required and the surrounding clues.

How can I distinguish between 'frankness' and 'bluntness' when solving a clue?

'Frankness' emphasizes honesty and directness, while 'bluntness' often adds a nuance of being unpleasantly direct or lacking tact. Crossword clues combining them suggest a word encompassing both aspects, focusing on forthright communication.

frankness bluntness crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome! If you're tackling a puzzle and landed on 'frankness bluntness' as your clue, you're in the right place. We've compiled all the likely answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your crossword with confidence and speed.

Solutions for "frankness bluntness crossword clue" by Letter Count

6 Letters

CANDOR: The quality of being open and honest in expression; frankness.

7 Letters

HONESTY: The quality of being truthful and sincere, often implying frankness.

8 Letters

OPENNESS: The quality or state of being open, frank, or direct.

9 Letters

BLUNTNESS: The quality of being direct and straightforward, often without subtlety or politeness.

10 Letters

DIRECTNESS: The quality of being straightforward in communication or action.

More About "frankness bluntness crossword clue"

The clue "frankness bluntness" is designed to guide solvers towards words that convey a sense of unvarnished truth or direct communication. While frankness often implies a positive or neutral honesty, bluntness can carry a connotation of being tactless or impolite. Therefore, answers to this clue typically bridge this semantic gap, referring to speech or actions that are direct and straightforward, regardless of how they are received.

Understanding the subtle differences between these concepts can be key to selecting the correct answer. Crossword setters love to play on these nuances. For instance, if the puzzle has a more positive tone, 'CANDOR' or 'HONESTY' might be favored. If the puzzle hints at a less diplomatic approach, 'BLUNTNESS' or 'DIRECTNESS' could be the target word. Always consider the length of the required answer and any intersecting letters you might already have.

This type of clue often appears in medium to difficult crosswords, as it requires not just vocabulary knowledge but also an understanding of subtle linguistic distinctions. By focusing on the core meaning of expressing truth without reservation, you can pinpoint the exact word the setter intended.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "frankness bluntness," consider if the setter leans more towards the positive (honesty, candor) or negative (tactlessness, directness) aspect to narrow down possibilities.
Check Letter Count First: Always match the number of letters you have available in the grid to the possible answers. This is often the quickest way to eliminate many options.
Consider Intersecting Words: Use any letters you've already filled in from crossing clues. These letters are your most valuable asset in confirming or ruling out potential answers.
Think of Synonyms and Antonyms: If stuck, brainstorm synonyms for each part of the clue ('frankness' and 'bluntness') separately, then look for words that combine both concepts. Sometimes, thinking of antonyms can also spark an idea.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common answer for 'frankness bluntness'?

While answers can vary by puzzle, 'CANDOR' (6 letters) and 'BLUNTNESS' (9 letters) are highly common solutions as they directly embody the meaning of the clue.

How do crosswords use synonyms and antonyms?

Crossword clues often use synonyms (like 'frankness bluntness' for CANDOR) or antonyms (e.g., 'opposite of open' for SHUT) to lead you to the answer. Understanding these relationships is crucial for solving.

Why is 'frankness bluntness' a challenging clue?

It's challenging because it combines two closely related but subtly different concepts. The solver needs to find a single word that encapsulates both the direct honesty of 'frankness' and the sometimes harsh directness of 'bluntness'.