Outspokenly

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

1. In a manner that clearly conveys opinions with honesty and a lack of restraint, often disregarding possible backlash or disapproval
2. In a way that emphasizes forthrightness and transparency in sharing one's views, frequently without fear of negative consequences
3. In a manner characterized by frankness and candid expression of thoughts, often unfiltered and without regard for potential criticism or social norms

Etymology: "Outspokenly" is simply "outspoken" with the adverb ending "-ly" added. The "-ly" ending has a long pedigree: it descends from a Proto-Germanic suffix meaning "body" or "form," and it passed through Old English as "-līce" before wearing down to the "-ly" we use today. The same ending turns "quick" into "quickly" or "kind" into "kindly," so it is one of the most productive word-building tools in English. The base word, "outspoken," is a compound of "out" and "spoken," and it describes someone who speaks openly, sometimes bluntly, without holding back. Put the two together and "outspokenly" describes the manner of such speech: frankly, with no concern for whether the listener will approve.

Synonyms: bluntly, candidly, frankly, directly, honestly

Antonyms: reservedly, silently, subtly, discreetly, tacitly