straightforward

1 of 2

adjective

straight·​for·​ward ˌstrāt-ˈfȯr-wərd How to pronounce straightforward (audio)
ˈstrāt-ˌfȯr-
Synonyms of straightforwardnext
1
a
: free from evasiveness or obscurity : exact, candid
a straightforward account
b(1)
: clear-cut, precise
straightforward instructions
(2)
: easy to do
Using the computer program is pretty straightforward.
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
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Adjective
But elsewhere in the race, the connection between money and momentum is far less straightforward. Grace Hase, Mercury News, 25 Apr. 2026 That said, accelerating the use of clean energy, including nuclear, is not straightforward for governments, particularly in developing countries with limited institutional capacity, financing, and technical expertise. Julius Cesar Trajano, Fortune, 24 Apr. 2026
Adverb
The moment seemed straightforward: two leaders visiting an industrial complex, shaking hands, smiling for the camera and making a nondescript speech or two. Stefano Pozzebon, CNN Money, 17 Feb. 2026 The market's logic seemed straightforward: more efficient AI means less demand for chips, less demand for data centers, less demand for power. Jon Markman, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026 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.grautoblog.com/dictionary/straightforward. Accessed 26 Apr. 2026.

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

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