Used to introduce a direct, honest, or blunt statement; speaking candidly without pretense or diplomacy.
This phrase combines 'quite' (meaning completely or entirely) with 'frankly' (from 'frank,' meaning free, open, or honest). 'Frank' derives from the medieval Franks, who as free people could speak openly. The combined phrase emerged in the 18th century as a way to signal forthright speech.
The word 'frank' originally referred to the Frankish people who enjoyed freedom of speech as free citizens, making this phrase a linguistic fossil of medieval social hierarchy. Ironically, 'quite frankly' is often used to soften potentially harsh truths, even though its literal meaning suggests the opposite of diplomatic softening.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.