candor

Candor is the quality of being open, honest, and direct in speech and presentation of information. It involves stating facts, opinions, and feedback plainly, without evasive or overly hedged language, while maintaining respect for others.

Etymology and distinctions: the term derives from Latin candor, meaning whiteness or purity, and in English has come to signify clarity of expression. Candor differs from honesty, which is a broader moral trait of truthfulness; it also differs from transparency, which emphasizes visibility of processes. Candor focuses on how information is communicated—frank and straightforward—often in combination with tact and consideration.

Contexts and advantages: candor is valued in journalism, academia, business, and personal relationships because it can reduce ambiguity, accelerate decision-making, and build trust when delivered responsibly. It supports critical assessment and accountability. However, candor can be perceived as blunt or insensitive if not tempered by empathy, context, or timing.

Practices: effective candid communication often involves framing feedback constructively, citing specific evidence or behavior, and proposing concrete implications or solutions. It may require obtaining consent to share sensitive information and calibrating the level of directness to the audience and situation.

See also: frankness, honesty, openness, transparency, directness.