Guide 84 / 200 3 alternatives 2-minute read
Better ways to say “To be honest”
Three words that imply previous dishonesty.
i · Why avoid itTwo lines, no filler
"To be honest," "honestly," and "frankly" signal to the reader "unlike everything else I've said." In professional writing this is disarming rather than reassuring. Say the thing directly.
ii · Before & afterDrop-in demo
Before
To be honest, the quarter was disappointing.
After
The quarter was disappointing.
iii · The alternatives3 ways out
- 01Candidly formal
for leadership communication
Candidly, the quarter was disappointing.
- 02In truth formal
reflective register
In truth, the quarter was disappointing.
- 03The reality is neutral
level-setting
The reality is the quarter was disappointing.
iv · Brew tipKeep this one
If you use "to be honest" often, ask whether the rest of your prose feels trusted. Usually fix there.