straightforward

1 of 2

adjective

straight·​for·​ward ˌstrāt-ˈfȯr-wərd How to pronounce straightforward (audio)
ˈstrāt-ˌfȯr-
1
a
: free from evasiveness or obscurity : exact, candid
a straightforward account
2
: proceeding in a straight course or manner : direct, undeviating
straightforwardly adverb
straightforwardness noun

straightforward

2 of 2

adverb

variants or less commonly straightforwards
: in a straightforward manner

Examples of straightforward in a Sentence

Adjective Using the computer program is fairly straightforward. He was very straightforward with us. She gave a straightforward account of what happened. Adverb she finally told him straightforward that she wasn't interested in a date
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
Overall, this is straightforward, with a finish that is a touch light Enjoy over the next 2-4 years. Tom Hyland, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025 On the surface, this was a straightforward inquiry. Kelly Iko, New York Times, 1 May 2025
Adverb
The solution seemed straightforward: provide therapy, housing, education, and job placement. Afdhel Aziz, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025 The cinematography morphs from something appropriate for a wacky comedic satire (straightforward) to lurid horror-movie tones; the score follows a similar path. Bill Goodykoontz, The Arizona Republic, 15 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for straightforward

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1787, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Adverb

1779, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of straightforward was in 1779

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Straightforward.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/straightforward. Accessed 7 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

straightforward

1 of 2 adjective
straight·​for·​ward (ˈ)strāt-ˈfȯr-wərd How to pronounce straightforward (audio)
1
: outspoken, candid
a straightforward reply
2
: proceeding in a straight course or manner : direct
straightforwardly adverb
straightforwardness noun

straightforward

2 of 2 adverb
variants also straightforwards
: in a straightforward manner

More from Merriam-Webster on straightforward

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