What's a concise verb for “to say frankly”












1














I'm trying to avoid using an adverb in the following sentence:




When people asked him where the money was going, he [said frankly], "a good cause".




I'm hoping there's a synonym for "said" that elicits feelings of terseness and simplicity in the speaker's voice, but I can't think of one.










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  • 1




    I can think of nothing shorter than he said frankly. Frankly means honestly. However, it doesn't mean being terse or simplistic. And I certainly can't think of a verb that means say in an honest and terse way.
    – Jason Bassford
    Dec 28 '18 at 16:40












  • Dang, I hate adverbs though. I'm also open to neologisms ;)
    – Zaya
    Dec 28 '18 at 16:41






  • 1




    Hasn't Stephen King cured you of using any verb other than said in attribution yet?
    – Robusto
    Dec 28 '18 at 17:31






  • 1




    Admitted? Vouchsafed? Divulged?. I'm not aware that frankly has any particular connotations of "terseness" or "simplicity".
    – FumbleFingers
    Dec 28 '18 at 17:41






  • 1




    The example implies, and you explicitly state in a comment to another answer, that "The character is lying to the people giving him money but in a convincing manner." But "frank" means "honest". So you don't seem to be asking for a word that means "frankly".
    – Acccumulation
    Dec 28 '18 at 20:04
















1














I'm trying to avoid using an adverb in the following sentence:




When people asked him where the money was going, he [said frankly], "a good cause".




I'm hoping there's a synonym for "said" that elicits feelings of terseness and simplicity in the speaker's voice, but I can't think of one.










share|improve this question


















  • 1




    I can think of nothing shorter than he said frankly. Frankly means honestly. However, it doesn't mean being terse or simplistic. And I certainly can't think of a verb that means say in an honest and terse way.
    – Jason Bassford
    Dec 28 '18 at 16:40












  • Dang, I hate adverbs though. I'm also open to neologisms ;)
    – Zaya
    Dec 28 '18 at 16:41






  • 1




    Hasn't Stephen King cured you of using any verb other than said in attribution yet?
    – Robusto
    Dec 28 '18 at 17:31






  • 1




    Admitted? Vouchsafed? Divulged?. I'm not aware that frankly has any particular connotations of "terseness" or "simplicity".
    – FumbleFingers
    Dec 28 '18 at 17:41






  • 1




    The example implies, and you explicitly state in a comment to another answer, that "The character is lying to the people giving him money but in a convincing manner." But "frank" means "honest". So you don't seem to be asking for a word that means "frankly".
    – Acccumulation
    Dec 28 '18 at 20:04














1












1








1







I'm trying to avoid using an adverb in the following sentence:




When people asked him where the money was going, he [said frankly], "a good cause".




I'm hoping there's a synonym for "said" that elicits feelings of terseness and simplicity in the speaker's voice, but I can't think of one.










share|improve this question













I'm trying to avoid using an adverb in the following sentence:




When people asked him where the money was going, he [said frankly], "a good cause".




I'm hoping there's a synonym for "said" that elicits feelings of terseness and simplicity in the speaker's voice, but I can't think of one.







single-word-requests






share|improve this question













share|improve this question











share|improve this question




share|improve this question










asked Dec 28 '18 at 16:35









Zaya

4247




4247








  • 1




    I can think of nothing shorter than he said frankly. Frankly means honestly. However, it doesn't mean being terse or simplistic. And I certainly can't think of a verb that means say in an honest and terse way.
    – Jason Bassford
    Dec 28 '18 at 16:40












  • Dang, I hate adverbs though. I'm also open to neologisms ;)
    – Zaya
    Dec 28 '18 at 16:41






  • 1




    Hasn't Stephen King cured you of using any verb other than said in attribution yet?
    – Robusto
    Dec 28 '18 at 17:31






  • 1




    Admitted? Vouchsafed? Divulged?. I'm not aware that frankly has any particular connotations of "terseness" or "simplicity".
    – FumbleFingers
    Dec 28 '18 at 17:41






  • 1




    The example implies, and you explicitly state in a comment to another answer, that "The character is lying to the people giving him money but in a convincing manner." But "frank" means "honest". So you don't seem to be asking for a word that means "frankly".
    – Acccumulation
    Dec 28 '18 at 20:04














  • 1




    I can think of nothing shorter than he said frankly. Frankly means honestly. However, it doesn't mean being terse or simplistic. And I certainly can't think of a verb that means say in an honest and terse way.
    – Jason Bassford
    Dec 28 '18 at 16:40












  • Dang, I hate adverbs though. I'm also open to neologisms ;)
    – Zaya
    Dec 28 '18 at 16:41






  • 1




    Hasn't Stephen King cured you of using any verb other than said in attribution yet?
    – Robusto
    Dec 28 '18 at 17:31






  • 1




    Admitted? Vouchsafed? Divulged?. I'm not aware that frankly has any particular connotations of "terseness" or "simplicity".
    – FumbleFingers
    Dec 28 '18 at 17:41






  • 1




    The example implies, and you explicitly state in a comment to another answer, that "The character is lying to the people giving him money but in a convincing manner." But "frank" means "honest". So you don't seem to be asking for a word that means "frankly".
    – Acccumulation
    Dec 28 '18 at 20:04








1




1




I can think of nothing shorter than he said frankly. Frankly means honestly. However, it doesn't mean being terse or simplistic. And I certainly can't think of a verb that means say in an honest and terse way.
– Jason Bassford
Dec 28 '18 at 16:40






I can think of nothing shorter than he said frankly. Frankly means honestly. However, it doesn't mean being terse or simplistic. And I certainly can't think of a verb that means say in an honest and terse way.
– Jason Bassford
Dec 28 '18 at 16:40














Dang, I hate adverbs though. I'm also open to neologisms ;)
– Zaya
Dec 28 '18 at 16:41




Dang, I hate adverbs though. I'm also open to neologisms ;)
– Zaya
Dec 28 '18 at 16:41




1




1




Hasn't Stephen King cured you of using any verb other than said in attribution yet?
– Robusto
Dec 28 '18 at 17:31




Hasn't Stephen King cured you of using any verb other than said in attribution yet?
– Robusto
Dec 28 '18 at 17:31




1




1




Admitted? Vouchsafed? Divulged?. I'm not aware that frankly has any particular connotations of "terseness" or "simplicity".
– FumbleFingers
Dec 28 '18 at 17:41




Admitted? Vouchsafed? Divulged?. I'm not aware that frankly has any particular connotations of "terseness" or "simplicity".
– FumbleFingers
Dec 28 '18 at 17:41




1




1




The example implies, and you explicitly state in a comment to another answer, that "The character is lying to the people giving him money but in a convincing manner." But "frank" means "honest". So you don't seem to be asking for a word that means "frankly".
– Acccumulation
Dec 28 '18 at 20:04




The example implies, and you explicitly state in a comment to another answer, that "The character is lying to the people giving him money but in a convincing manner." But "frank" means "honest". So you don't seem to be asking for a word that means "frankly".
– Acccumulation
Dec 28 '18 at 20:04










6 Answers
6






active

oldest

votes


















1














I want to know more about the character in your example to provide a good option because you could elicit a similar feeling using a different type of word altogether. Part of me would like to see:




When people asked him where the money was going, he quipped, "a good cause".




even though that is more witty. I also like the following, which, depending on the full context, could give off a similar "terse but honest" vibe:




...he shrugged, " a good cause".



...he leveled, "a good cause".



...he maintained, "a good cause".




I could go on, and, while I typed this out, some others have posted good answers. I'm a fan of context and character to choose the best "said" replacement.






share|improve this answer





















  • The character is lying to the people giving him money but in a convincing manner. He's collecting "donations" from a great many people, so each interaction is very short. I like the use of action verbs though, that's a great idea. I think I'll go with shrugged
    – Zaya
    Dec 28 '18 at 17:17






  • 2




    These are all horrible, and don't convey any of the sense of frankly, frankly.
    – Robusto
    Dec 28 '18 at 17:28






  • 1




    @Zaya Awesome! I think words can have certain implications (not always what a strict, dictionary definition might indicate) given the scenario/context. Let's assume this particular character is known to be frank but vague. So we, the audience/observer, know that when he shrugs, he's being frank in his own sly way.
    – Gwendolyn
    Dec 28 '18 at 17:32










  • @Zaya: if the speaker really isn't being frank, but is just seeming to be so, then shrugged is a good choice.
    – Kiloran_speaking
    Dec 28 '18 at 18:47



















3














Though none are quite synonymous with "saying frankly," a few words that carry a similar connotation are declared, avowed, professed, and affirmed.






share|improve this answer





























    2














    I think the closest verb you will find is to avow.



    He avowed the money was for a good cause.



    I don't believe it is exactly synonymous with the phrasal "he stated frankly", as it seems also to suggest a sense of "promise" or "guarantee", rather than just straightness and sincerity. But the two are very close.



    This particular sense of avow is number 5, of the OED listing of the verb.





    1. transitive. To own, acknowledge, admit, or confess (facts, statements, or opinions, that one might himself conceal or deny).
      Const. as in 4. 1330 R. Mannyng Chron. 320 If he wille avowe alle
      his wikked sawe. c1386 Chaucer Canon's Yeoman's Prol. & Tale 89 I
      wol nought avowe what I say, And therfor kep it secré I yow pray.
      c1440 Promptorium Parvulorum 19 A-vowyn, or stonde by the forsayde
      worde or dede, Advoco. a1464 J. Capgrave Abbreuiacion of Cron.
      (Cambr. Gg.4.12) (1983) 141 Sche accused a certeyn knyte, whech cam
      to þe kyng and avowid euery word. 1660 R. Allestree Gentlemans
      Calling ix. 159 This little Tract..must avow to come upon that
      uncivil, yet friendly errand. 1667 Dryden Annus Mirabilis 1666
      cxxxvii. 35 As when Fiends did Miracles avow, He stands confess'd
      ev'n by the boastful Dutch. 1778 Johnson in Boswell Life Johnson
      (1816) III. 294 Many a man thinks, what he is ashamed to avow. 1855
      W. H. Prescott Hist. Reign Philip II of Spain I. ii. viii. 235 The
      boldness with which he avowed his opinions.







    share|improve this answer





























      0














      According to Merriam-Webster, one sense of level
      is “to deal frankly and openly.”



      I found a use that seems to illustrate that:




      He listened to our story with every sign of sympathy, and a touch of
      sorrow. Then he leveled with us: "I think you're absolutely in the
      right," he said, "but it's a political matter. I wouldn't touch it
      with a ten-foot pole."



      Odd Man Out: A Memoir of the Hollywood Ten, by Edward Dmytryk, Page 50.




      And (again according Merriam-Webster), senses of confide
      include “to show confidence by imparting secrets” and “to tell confidentially.”



      And a use that seems illustrative to me:




      ... [He] was very well approved of by his master, who
      found him daily more and more intelligent in all things relating to
      traffic, and so confided in him that he sent him with some ships...



      Rascals in Paradise, by James A. Michener, ‎Page 76







      share|improve this answer





























        0














        It's somewhat pejorative to tone and thought process, but the verb blurt (out) is an option:




        When people asked him where the money was going, he blurted out "a good cause".







        share|improve this answer





















        • This is incorrect. "Blurt out" has an entirely different meaning to "state frankly". Please consult a dictionary.
          – WS2
          18 hours ago





















        -1














        Maybe try, "he posited," or "delineated."






        share|improve this answer








        New contributor




        John is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
        Check out our Code of Conduct.














        • 1




          Hi John, welcome to EL&U. This isn't a bad start, but it's too short: the system has flagged it as "low-quality because of its length and content." An answer on EL&U is expected to be authoritative, detailed, and explain why it is correct. Can I suggest you edit your answer to provide more information - e.g., add published definitions of posit and delineate (linked to the source) and why they suit the given context? For further guidance, see How to Answer and take the EL&U Tour :-)
          – Chappo
          Dec 29 '18 at 1:44










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        6 Answers
        6






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        6 Answers
        6






        active

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        active

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        1














        I want to know more about the character in your example to provide a good option because you could elicit a similar feeling using a different type of word altogether. Part of me would like to see:




        When people asked him where the money was going, he quipped, "a good cause".




        even though that is more witty. I also like the following, which, depending on the full context, could give off a similar "terse but honest" vibe:




        ...he shrugged, " a good cause".



        ...he leveled, "a good cause".



        ...he maintained, "a good cause".




        I could go on, and, while I typed this out, some others have posted good answers. I'm a fan of context and character to choose the best "said" replacement.






        share|improve this answer





















        • The character is lying to the people giving him money but in a convincing manner. He's collecting "donations" from a great many people, so each interaction is very short. I like the use of action verbs though, that's a great idea. I think I'll go with shrugged
          – Zaya
          Dec 28 '18 at 17:17






        • 2




          These are all horrible, and don't convey any of the sense of frankly, frankly.
          – Robusto
          Dec 28 '18 at 17:28






        • 1




          @Zaya Awesome! I think words can have certain implications (not always what a strict, dictionary definition might indicate) given the scenario/context. Let's assume this particular character is known to be frank but vague. So we, the audience/observer, know that when he shrugs, he's being frank in his own sly way.
          – Gwendolyn
          Dec 28 '18 at 17:32










        • @Zaya: if the speaker really isn't being frank, but is just seeming to be so, then shrugged is a good choice.
          – Kiloran_speaking
          Dec 28 '18 at 18:47
















        1














        I want to know more about the character in your example to provide a good option because you could elicit a similar feeling using a different type of word altogether. Part of me would like to see:




        When people asked him where the money was going, he quipped, "a good cause".




        even though that is more witty. I also like the following, which, depending on the full context, could give off a similar "terse but honest" vibe:




        ...he shrugged, " a good cause".



        ...he leveled, "a good cause".



        ...he maintained, "a good cause".




        I could go on, and, while I typed this out, some others have posted good answers. I'm a fan of context and character to choose the best "said" replacement.






        share|improve this answer





















        • The character is lying to the people giving him money but in a convincing manner. He's collecting "donations" from a great many people, so each interaction is very short. I like the use of action verbs though, that's a great idea. I think I'll go with shrugged
          – Zaya
          Dec 28 '18 at 17:17






        • 2




          These are all horrible, and don't convey any of the sense of frankly, frankly.
          – Robusto
          Dec 28 '18 at 17:28






        • 1




          @Zaya Awesome! I think words can have certain implications (not always what a strict, dictionary definition might indicate) given the scenario/context. Let's assume this particular character is known to be frank but vague. So we, the audience/observer, know that when he shrugs, he's being frank in his own sly way.
          – Gwendolyn
          Dec 28 '18 at 17:32










        • @Zaya: if the speaker really isn't being frank, but is just seeming to be so, then shrugged is a good choice.
          – Kiloran_speaking
          Dec 28 '18 at 18:47














        1












        1








        1






        I want to know more about the character in your example to provide a good option because you could elicit a similar feeling using a different type of word altogether. Part of me would like to see:




        When people asked him where the money was going, he quipped, "a good cause".




        even though that is more witty. I also like the following, which, depending on the full context, could give off a similar "terse but honest" vibe:




        ...he shrugged, " a good cause".



        ...he leveled, "a good cause".



        ...he maintained, "a good cause".




        I could go on, and, while I typed this out, some others have posted good answers. I'm a fan of context and character to choose the best "said" replacement.






        share|improve this answer












        I want to know more about the character in your example to provide a good option because you could elicit a similar feeling using a different type of word altogether. Part of me would like to see:




        When people asked him where the money was going, he quipped, "a good cause".




        even though that is more witty. I also like the following, which, depending on the full context, could give off a similar "terse but honest" vibe:




        ...he shrugged, " a good cause".



        ...he leveled, "a good cause".



        ...he maintained, "a good cause".




        I could go on, and, while I typed this out, some others have posted good answers. I'm a fan of context and character to choose the best "said" replacement.







        share|improve this answer












        share|improve this answer



        share|improve this answer










        answered Dec 28 '18 at 17:14









        Gwendolyn

        2816




        2816












        • The character is lying to the people giving him money but in a convincing manner. He's collecting "donations" from a great many people, so each interaction is very short. I like the use of action verbs though, that's a great idea. I think I'll go with shrugged
          – Zaya
          Dec 28 '18 at 17:17






        • 2




          These are all horrible, and don't convey any of the sense of frankly, frankly.
          – Robusto
          Dec 28 '18 at 17:28






        • 1




          @Zaya Awesome! I think words can have certain implications (not always what a strict, dictionary definition might indicate) given the scenario/context. Let's assume this particular character is known to be frank but vague. So we, the audience/observer, know that when he shrugs, he's being frank in his own sly way.
          – Gwendolyn
          Dec 28 '18 at 17:32










        • @Zaya: if the speaker really isn't being frank, but is just seeming to be so, then shrugged is a good choice.
          – Kiloran_speaking
          Dec 28 '18 at 18:47


















        • The character is lying to the people giving him money but in a convincing manner. He's collecting "donations" from a great many people, so each interaction is very short. I like the use of action verbs though, that's a great idea. I think I'll go with shrugged
          – Zaya
          Dec 28 '18 at 17:17






        • 2




          These are all horrible, and don't convey any of the sense of frankly, frankly.
          – Robusto
          Dec 28 '18 at 17:28






        • 1




          @Zaya Awesome! I think words can have certain implications (not always what a strict, dictionary definition might indicate) given the scenario/context. Let's assume this particular character is known to be frank but vague. So we, the audience/observer, know that when he shrugs, he's being frank in his own sly way.
          – Gwendolyn
          Dec 28 '18 at 17:32










        • @Zaya: if the speaker really isn't being frank, but is just seeming to be so, then shrugged is a good choice.
          – Kiloran_speaking
          Dec 28 '18 at 18:47
















        The character is lying to the people giving him money but in a convincing manner. He's collecting "donations" from a great many people, so each interaction is very short. I like the use of action verbs though, that's a great idea. I think I'll go with shrugged
        – Zaya
        Dec 28 '18 at 17:17




        The character is lying to the people giving him money but in a convincing manner. He's collecting "donations" from a great many people, so each interaction is very short. I like the use of action verbs though, that's a great idea. I think I'll go with shrugged
        – Zaya
        Dec 28 '18 at 17:17




        2




        2




        These are all horrible, and don't convey any of the sense of frankly, frankly.
        – Robusto
        Dec 28 '18 at 17:28




        These are all horrible, and don't convey any of the sense of frankly, frankly.
        – Robusto
        Dec 28 '18 at 17:28




        1




        1




        @Zaya Awesome! I think words can have certain implications (not always what a strict, dictionary definition might indicate) given the scenario/context. Let's assume this particular character is known to be frank but vague. So we, the audience/observer, know that when he shrugs, he's being frank in his own sly way.
        – Gwendolyn
        Dec 28 '18 at 17:32




        @Zaya Awesome! I think words can have certain implications (not always what a strict, dictionary definition might indicate) given the scenario/context. Let's assume this particular character is known to be frank but vague. So we, the audience/observer, know that when he shrugs, he's being frank in his own sly way.
        – Gwendolyn
        Dec 28 '18 at 17:32












        @Zaya: if the speaker really isn't being frank, but is just seeming to be so, then shrugged is a good choice.
        – Kiloran_speaking
        Dec 28 '18 at 18:47




        @Zaya: if the speaker really isn't being frank, but is just seeming to be so, then shrugged is a good choice.
        – Kiloran_speaking
        Dec 28 '18 at 18:47













        3














        Though none are quite synonymous with "saying frankly," a few words that carry a similar connotation are declared, avowed, professed, and affirmed.






        share|improve this answer


























          3














          Though none are quite synonymous with "saying frankly," a few words that carry a similar connotation are declared, avowed, professed, and affirmed.






          share|improve this answer
























            3












            3








            3






            Though none are quite synonymous with "saying frankly," a few words that carry a similar connotation are declared, avowed, professed, and affirmed.






            share|improve this answer












            Though none are quite synonymous with "saying frankly," a few words that carry a similar connotation are declared, avowed, professed, and affirmed.







            share|improve this answer












            share|improve this answer



            share|improve this answer










            answered Dec 28 '18 at 17:10









            hoppergrass

            1892




            1892























                2














                I think the closest verb you will find is to avow.



                He avowed the money was for a good cause.



                I don't believe it is exactly synonymous with the phrasal "he stated frankly", as it seems also to suggest a sense of "promise" or "guarantee", rather than just straightness and sincerity. But the two are very close.



                This particular sense of avow is number 5, of the OED listing of the verb.





                1. transitive. To own, acknowledge, admit, or confess (facts, statements, or opinions, that one might himself conceal or deny).
                  Const. as in 4. 1330 R. Mannyng Chron. 320 If he wille avowe alle
                  his wikked sawe. c1386 Chaucer Canon's Yeoman's Prol. & Tale 89 I
                  wol nought avowe what I say, And therfor kep it secré I yow pray.
                  c1440 Promptorium Parvulorum 19 A-vowyn, or stonde by the forsayde
                  worde or dede, Advoco. a1464 J. Capgrave Abbreuiacion of Cron.
                  (Cambr. Gg.4.12) (1983) 141 Sche accused a certeyn knyte, whech cam
                  to þe kyng and avowid euery word. 1660 R. Allestree Gentlemans
                  Calling ix. 159 This little Tract..must avow to come upon that
                  uncivil, yet friendly errand. 1667 Dryden Annus Mirabilis 1666
                  cxxxvii. 35 As when Fiends did Miracles avow, He stands confess'd
                  ev'n by the boastful Dutch. 1778 Johnson in Boswell Life Johnson
                  (1816) III. 294 Many a man thinks, what he is ashamed to avow. 1855
                  W. H. Prescott Hist. Reign Philip II of Spain I. ii. viii. 235 The
                  boldness with which he avowed his opinions.







                share|improve this answer


























                  2














                  I think the closest verb you will find is to avow.



                  He avowed the money was for a good cause.



                  I don't believe it is exactly synonymous with the phrasal "he stated frankly", as it seems also to suggest a sense of "promise" or "guarantee", rather than just straightness and sincerity. But the two are very close.



                  This particular sense of avow is number 5, of the OED listing of the verb.





                  1. transitive. To own, acknowledge, admit, or confess (facts, statements, or opinions, that one might himself conceal or deny).
                    Const. as in 4. 1330 R. Mannyng Chron. 320 If he wille avowe alle
                    his wikked sawe. c1386 Chaucer Canon's Yeoman's Prol. & Tale 89 I
                    wol nought avowe what I say, And therfor kep it secré I yow pray.
                    c1440 Promptorium Parvulorum 19 A-vowyn, or stonde by the forsayde
                    worde or dede, Advoco. a1464 J. Capgrave Abbreuiacion of Cron.
                    (Cambr. Gg.4.12) (1983) 141 Sche accused a certeyn knyte, whech cam
                    to þe kyng and avowid euery word. 1660 R. Allestree Gentlemans
                    Calling ix. 159 This little Tract..must avow to come upon that
                    uncivil, yet friendly errand. 1667 Dryden Annus Mirabilis 1666
                    cxxxvii. 35 As when Fiends did Miracles avow, He stands confess'd
                    ev'n by the boastful Dutch. 1778 Johnson in Boswell Life Johnson
                    (1816) III. 294 Many a man thinks, what he is ashamed to avow. 1855
                    W. H. Prescott Hist. Reign Philip II of Spain I. ii. viii. 235 The
                    boldness with which he avowed his opinions.







                  share|improve this answer
























                    2












                    2








                    2






                    I think the closest verb you will find is to avow.



                    He avowed the money was for a good cause.



                    I don't believe it is exactly synonymous with the phrasal "he stated frankly", as it seems also to suggest a sense of "promise" or "guarantee", rather than just straightness and sincerity. But the two are very close.



                    This particular sense of avow is number 5, of the OED listing of the verb.





                    1. transitive. To own, acknowledge, admit, or confess (facts, statements, or opinions, that one might himself conceal or deny).
                      Const. as in 4. 1330 R. Mannyng Chron. 320 If he wille avowe alle
                      his wikked sawe. c1386 Chaucer Canon's Yeoman's Prol. & Tale 89 I
                      wol nought avowe what I say, And therfor kep it secré I yow pray.
                      c1440 Promptorium Parvulorum 19 A-vowyn, or stonde by the forsayde
                      worde or dede, Advoco. a1464 J. Capgrave Abbreuiacion of Cron.
                      (Cambr. Gg.4.12) (1983) 141 Sche accused a certeyn knyte, whech cam
                      to þe kyng and avowid euery word. 1660 R. Allestree Gentlemans
                      Calling ix. 159 This little Tract..must avow to come upon that
                      uncivil, yet friendly errand. 1667 Dryden Annus Mirabilis 1666
                      cxxxvii. 35 As when Fiends did Miracles avow, He stands confess'd
                      ev'n by the boastful Dutch. 1778 Johnson in Boswell Life Johnson
                      (1816) III. 294 Many a man thinks, what he is ashamed to avow. 1855
                      W. H. Prescott Hist. Reign Philip II of Spain I. ii. viii. 235 The
                      boldness with which he avowed his opinions.







                    share|improve this answer












                    I think the closest verb you will find is to avow.



                    He avowed the money was for a good cause.



                    I don't believe it is exactly synonymous with the phrasal "he stated frankly", as it seems also to suggest a sense of "promise" or "guarantee", rather than just straightness and sincerity. But the two are very close.



                    This particular sense of avow is number 5, of the OED listing of the verb.





                    1. transitive. To own, acknowledge, admit, or confess (facts, statements, or opinions, that one might himself conceal or deny).
                      Const. as in 4. 1330 R. Mannyng Chron. 320 If he wille avowe alle
                      his wikked sawe. c1386 Chaucer Canon's Yeoman's Prol. & Tale 89 I
                      wol nought avowe what I say, And therfor kep it secré I yow pray.
                      c1440 Promptorium Parvulorum 19 A-vowyn, or stonde by the forsayde
                      worde or dede, Advoco. a1464 J. Capgrave Abbreuiacion of Cron.
                      (Cambr. Gg.4.12) (1983) 141 Sche accused a certeyn knyte, whech cam
                      to þe kyng and avowid euery word. 1660 R. Allestree Gentlemans
                      Calling ix. 159 This little Tract..must avow to come upon that
                      uncivil, yet friendly errand. 1667 Dryden Annus Mirabilis 1666
                      cxxxvii. 35 As when Fiends did Miracles avow, He stands confess'd
                      ev'n by the boastful Dutch. 1778 Johnson in Boswell Life Johnson
                      (1816) III. 294 Many a man thinks, what he is ashamed to avow. 1855
                      W. H. Prescott Hist. Reign Philip II of Spain I. ii. viii. 235 The
                      boldness with which he avowed his opinions.








                    share|improve this answer












                    share|improve this answer



                    share|improve this answer










                    answered Dec 28 '18 at 17:11









                    WS2

                    51.4k27112243




                    51.4k27112243























                        0














                        According to Merriam-Webster, one sense of level
                        is “to deal frankly and openly.”



                        I found a use that seems to illustrate that:




                        He listened to our story with every sign of sympathy, and a touch of
                        sorrow. Then he leveled with us: "I think you're absolutely in the
                        right," he said, "but it's a political matter. I wouldn't touch it
                        with a ten-foot pole."



                        Odd Man Out: A Memoir of the Hollywood Ten, by Edward Dmytryk, Page 50.




                        And (again according Merriam-Webster), senses of confide
                        include “to show confidence by imparting secrets” and “to tell confidentially.”



                        And a use that seems illustrative to me:




                        ... [He] was very well approved of by his master, who
                        found him daily more and more intelligent in all things relating to
                        traffic, and so confided in him that he sent him with some ships...



                        Rascals in Paradise, by James A. Michener, ‎Page 76







                        share|improve this answer


























                          0














                          According to Merriam-Webster, one sense of level
                          is “to deal frankly and openly.”



                          I found a use that seems to illustrate that:




                          He listened to our story with every sign of sympathy, and a touch of
                          sorrow. Then he leveled with us: "I think you're absolutely in the
                          right," he said, "but it's a political matter. I wouldn't touch it
                          with a ten-foot pole."



                          Odd Man Out: A Memoir of the Hollywood Ten, by Edward Dmytryk, Page 50.




                          And (again according Merriam-Webster), senses of confide
                          include “to show confidence by imparting secrets” and “to tell confidentially.”



                          And a use that seems illustrative to me:




                          ... [He] was very well approved of by his master, who
                          found him daily more and more intelligent in all things relating to
                          traffic, and so confided in him that he sent him with some ships...



                          Rascals in Paradise, by James A. Michener, ‎Page 76







                          share|improve this answer
























                            0












                            0








                            0






                            According to Merriam-Webster, one sense of level
                            is “to deal frankly and openly.”



                            I found a use that seems to illustrate that:




                            He listened to our story with every sign of sympathy, and a touch of
                            sorrow. Then he leveled with us: "I think you're absolutely in the
                            right," he said, "but it's a political matter. I wouldn't touch it
                            with a ten-foot pole."



                            Odd Man Out: A Memoir of the Hollywood Ten, by Edward Dmytryk, Page 50.




                            And (again according Merriam-Webster), senses of confide
                            include “to show confidence by imparting secrets” and “to tell confidentially.”



                            And a use that seems illustrative to me:




                            ... [He] was very well approved of by his master, who
                            found him daily more and more intelligent in all things relating to
                            traffic, and so confided in him that he sent him with some ships...



                            Rascals in Paradise, by James A. Michener, ‎Page 76







                            share|improve this answer












                            According to Merriam-Webster, one sense of level
                            is “to deal frankly and openly.”



                            I found a use that seems to illustrate that:




                            He listened to our story with every sign of sympathy, and a touch of
                            sorrow. Then he leveled with us: "I think you're absolutely in the
                            right," he said, "but it's a political matter. I wouldn't touch it
                            with a ten-foot pole."



                            Odd Man Out: A Memoir of the Hollywood Ten, by Edward Dmytryk, Page 50.




                            And (again according Merriam-Webster), senses of confide
                            include “to show confidence by imparting secrets” and “to tell confidentially.”



                            And a use that seems illustrative to me:




                            ... [He] was very well approved of by his master, who
                            found him daily more and more intelligent in all things relating to
                            traffic, and so confided in him that he sent him with some ships...



                            Rascals in Paradise, by James A. Michener, ‎Page 76








                            share|improve this answer












                            share|improve this answer



                            share|improve this answer










                            answered Dec 28 '18 at 17:10









                            Chaim

                            1,944718




                            1,944718























                                0














                                It's somewhat pejorative to tone and thought process, but the verb blurt (out) is an option:




                                When people asked him where the money was going, he blurted out "a good cause".







                                share|improve this answer





















                                • This is incorrect. "Blurt out" has an entirely different meaning to "state frankly". Please consult a dictionary.
                                  – WS2
                                  18 hours ago


















                                0














                                It's somewhat pejorative to tone and thought process, but the verb blurt (out) is an option:




                                When people asked him where the money was going, he blurted out "a good cause".







                                share|improve this answer





















                                • This is incorrect. "Blurt out" has an entirely different meaning to "state frankly". Please consult a dictionary.
                                  – WS2
                                  18 hours ago
















                                0












                                0








                                0






                                It's somewhat pejorative to tone and thought process, but the verb blurt (out) is an option:




                                When people asked him where the money was going, he blurted out "a good cause".







                                share|improve this answer












                                It's somewhat pejorative to tone and thought process, but the verb blurt (out) is an option:




                                When people asked him where the money was going, he blurted out "a good cause".








                                share|improve this answer












                                share|improve this answer



                                share|improve this answer










                                answered Dec 29 '18 at 1:16









                                X Goodrich

                                1392




                                1392












                                • This is incorrect. "Blurt out" has an entirely different meaning to "state frankly". Please consult a dictionary.
                                  – WS2
                                  18 hours ago




















                                • This is incorrect. "Blurt out" has an entirely different meaning to "state frankly". Please consult a dictionary.
                                  – WS2
                                  18 hours ago


















                                This is incorrect. "Blurt out" has an entirely different meaning to "state frankly". Please consult a dictionary.
                                – WS2
                                18 hours ago






                                This is incorrect. "Blurt out" has an entirely different meaning to "state frankly". Please consult a dictionary.
                                – WS2
                                18 hours ago













                                -1














                                Maybe try, "he posited," or "delineated."






                                share|improve this answer








                                New contributor




                                John is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
                                Check out our Code of Conduct.














                                • 1




                                  Hi John, welcome to EL&U. This isn't a bad start, but it's too short: the system has flagged it as "low-quality because of its length and content." An answer on EL&U is expected to be authoritative, detailed, and explain why it is correct. Can I suggest you edit your answer to provide more information - e.g., add published definitions of posit and delineate (linked to the source) and why they suit the given context? For further guidance, see How to Answer and take the EL&U Tour :-)
                                  – Chappo
                                  Dec 29 '18 at 1:44










                                • Thank you for your effort. Stack Exchange answers are “right” answers, not ideas, suggestions, or opinions. If you are unsure what the asker is looking for, first ask for clarification in the comment box on the question. To comment on existing questions you can easily earn the privilege.
                                  – MetaEd
                                  yesterday
















                                -1














                                Maybe try, "he posited," or "delineated."






                                share|improve this answer








                                New contributor




                                John is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
                                Check out our Code of Conduct.














                                • 1




                                  Hi John, welcome to EL&U. This isn't a bad start, but it's too short: the system has flagged it as "low-quality because of its length and content." An answer on EL&U is expected to be authoritative, detailed, and explain why it is correct. Can I suggest you edit your answer to provide more information - e.g., add published definitions of posit and delineate (linked to the source) and why they suit the given context? For further guidance, see How to Answer and take the EL&U Tour :-)
                                  – Chappo
                                  Dec 29 '18 at 1:44










                                • Thank you for your effort. Stack Exchange answers are “right” answers, not ideas, suggestions, or opinions. If you are unsure what the asker is looking for, first ask for clarification in the comment box on the question. To comment on existing questions you can easily earn the privilege.
                                  – MetaEd
                                  yesterday














                                -1












                                -1








                                -1






                                Maybe try, "he posited," or "delineated."






                                share|improve this answer








                                New contributor




                                John is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
                                Check out our Code of Conduct.









                                Maybe try, "he posited," or "delineated."







                                share|improve this answer








                                New contributor




                                John is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
                                Check out our Code of Conduct.









                                share|improve this answer



                                share|improve this answer






                                New contributor




                                John is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
                                Check out our Code of Conduct.









                                answered Dec 29 '18 at 0:38









                                John

                                1




                                1




                                New contributor




                                John is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
                                Check out our Code of Conduct.





                                New contributor





                                John is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
                                Check out our Code of Conduct.






                                John is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
                                Check out our Code of Conduct.








                                • 1




                                  Hi John, welcome to EL&U. This isn't a bad start, but it's too short: the system has flagged it as "low-quality because of its length and content." An answer on EL&U is expected to be authoritative, detailed, and explain why it is correct. Can I suggest you edit your answer to provide more information - e.g., add published definitions of posit and delineate (linked to the source) and why they suit the given context? For further guidance, see How to Answer and take the EL&U Tour :-)
                                  – Chappo
                                  Dec 29 '18 at 1:44










                                • Thank you for your effort. Stack Exchange answers are “right” answers, not ideas, suggestions, or opinions. If you are unsure what the asker is looking for, first ask for clarification in the comment box on the question. To comment on existing questions you can easily earn the privilege.
                                  – MetaEd
                                  yesterday














                                • 1




                                  Hi John, welcome to EL&U. This isn't a bad start, but it's too short: the system has flagged it as "low-quality because of its length and content." An answer on EL&U is expected to be authoritative, detailed, and explain why it is correct. Can I suggest you edit your answer to provide more information - e.g., add published definitions of posit and delineate (linked to the source) and why they suit the given context? For further guidance, see How to Answer and take the EL&U Tour :-)
                                  – Chappo
                                  Dec 29 '18 at 1:44










                                • Thank you for your effort. Stack Exchange answers are “right” answers, not ideas, suggestions, or opinions. If you are unsure what the asker is looking for, first ask for clarification in the comment box on the question. To comment on existing questions you can easily earn the privilege.
                                  – MetaEd
                                  yesterday








                                1




                                1




                                Hi John, welcome to EL&U. This isn't a bad start, but it's too short: the system has flagged it as "low-quality because of its length and content." An answer on EL&U is expected to be authoritative, detailed, and explain why it is correct. Can I suggest you edit your answer to provide more information - e.g., add published definitions of posit and delineate (linked to the source) and why they suit the given context? For further guidance, see How to Answer and take the EL&U Tour :-)
                                – Chappo
                                Dec 29 '18 at 1:44




                                Hi John, welcome to EL&U. This isn't a bad start, but it's too short: the system has flagged it as "low-quality because of its length and content." An answer on EL&U is expected to be authoritative, detailed, and explain why it is correct. Can I suggest you edit your answer to provide more information - e.g., add published definitions of posit and delineate (linked to the source) and why they suit the given context? For further guidance, see How to Answer and take the EL&U Tour :-)
                                – Chappo
                                Dec 29 '18 at 1:44












                                Thank you for your effort. Stack Exchange answers are “right” answers, not ideas, suggestions, or opinions. If you are unsure what the asker is looking for, first ask for clarification in the comment box on the question. To comment on existing questions you can easily earn the privilege.
                                – MetaEd
                                yesterday




                                Thank you for your effort. Stack Exchange answers are “right” answers, not ideas, suggestions, or opinions. If you are unsure what the asker is looking for, first ask for clarification in the comment box on the question. To comment on existing questions you can easily earn the privilege.
                                – MetaEd
                                yesterday


















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