frank
B2neutral to formal
Definition
Meaning
honest and direct, especially in speech or manner
1. to stamp an official mark on a letter to show postage has been paid; 2. to allow someone to send mail free of charge; 3. (archaic) free from restrictions
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
As an adjective, 'frank' emphasizes directness in communication, often implying a refreshing honesty that might temporarily cause discomfort but is ultimately constructive. As a verb, it primarily refers to postal franking.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant semantic differences. The postal usage (verb) is slightly more common in UK administrative contexts historically.
Connotations
Similar positive connotations of honesty in both varieties.
Frequency
Similar frequency in both dialects. The expression 'to be frank with you' is equally common.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
to be frank with somebodyto be frank about somethingto frank a letterVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “to be frank (with you)”
- “frank and fair”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used in performance reviews or negotiations ('We need a frank discussion about the budget').
Academic
Used to describe historical sources or scholarly debate ('a frank analysis of the treaty's flaws').
Everyday
Common in personal conversations to preface honest opinions ('To be frank, I didn't enjoy the film').
Technical
In postal services, referring to the official mark that replaces a stamp.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The MP can frank official correspondence.
- This machine franks all our business mail.
American English
- The senator's office will frank the newsletters.
- We need to frank these envelopes before the deadline.
adverb
British English
- He spoke frankly about the financial risks.
- She frankly admitted her mistake.
American English
- Let me say this frankly: we need to change course.
- I frankly don't care about the rumours.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- He is a very frank person.
- She gave a frank answer.
- To be frank, I think we should start again.
- The manager was frank about the company's problems.
- We had a frank exchange of views during the meeting.
- Her frank assessment helped us improve the design.
- The biography is praised for its frank portrayal of the artist's struggles.
- The negotiations proceeded on the basis of frank and mutually respectful dialogue.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine FRANK the TANK – he's big, direct, and crashes through obstacles without hiding anything.
Conceptual Metaphor
HONESTY IS OPENNESS / DIRECTNESS IS A STRAIGHT PATH
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid confusing with the name 'Фрэнк' (Frank).
- Do not use 'frank' for 'free' as in 'free of charge' – that's only in the specific postal verb sense.
- Russian 'откровенный' is a good match, but 'frank' is slightly more formal and less emotional.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'frank' to mean 'rude' (it's honest, not necessarily impolite).
- Incorrect: 'He franked about his feelings.' Correct: 'He was frank about his feelings.' or 'He spoke frankly about his feelings.'
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the LEAST likely meaning of 'frank'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally positive, as it values honesty. However, if someone is 'too frank,' it can be perceived as tactless or harsh.
'Honest' is the broadest term for truthfulness. 'Frank' specifically implies directness in expressing the truth, especially on sensitive matters. 'Blunt' is a stronger form of frankness that often neglects politeness.
Yes, but primarily in the context of postal services, meaning to stamp a letter officially so it can be sent without a stamp, or to give someone that privilege.
The noun is 'frankness' (e.g., 'I appreciate your frankness'). The adverb is 'frankly'.