candour
8 synonyms and 2 antonyms for candour, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The quality of speaking openly and honestly, even when the truth is awkward or unflattering.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use candour
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
refreshing candour
with candour
brutal candour
a moment of candour
candour about
Slightly formal and always approving; British English spells it candour, American English candor.
Etymology
From Latin candor meaning brightness or whiteness, from candere to shine; the sense of openness developed from the idea of clarity.
Full origin of candour →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between candour and honesty?
Honesty means not lying. Candour goes further and means volunteering the uncomfortable truth rather than staying safely silent. Someone can be honest yet guarded, but not candid and guarded at once.
Is it spelled candour or candor?
Both are correct. Candour is the British and Commonwealth spelling; candor is standard in the United States. The meaning is identical.
Is candour always a compliment?
Almost always. It implies courage and good faith. When the openness is felt to be tactless, writers usually reach for bluntness instead.
