honestly[adverb]Synonyms:- ethically, by fair means, cleanly, honourably, lawfully, legally
- frankly, candidly, in all sincerity, plainly, straight (out), to one's face, truthfully
[TahlilGaran] English Synonym Dictionary ▲
hon‧est‧ly S2 /ˈɒnəstli, ˈɒnɪstli $ ˈɑːn-/
adverb [
Word Family: noun:
honesty ≠
dishonesty;
adverb:
honestly ≠
dishonestly;
adjective:
honest ≠
dishonest]
1. used to emphasize that what you are saying is true, even though it may seem surprising:
I honestly don’t know how old my parents are. I can honestly say that I never worry about him now.2. spoken used when you are shocked or annoyed by something someone has said or done
Synonym : really:
Honestly! Do you ever listen?3. spoken used to try to make someone believe that what you have just said is true:
It wasn’t me, honestly!4. in an honest way
Synonym : truthfully:
Tell me honestly, Kate, what do you think of John? We talked openly and honestly. ‘No, I don’t,’ she answered honestly. [TahlilGaran] Dictionary of Contemporary English ▲
honestlyadverb1. 
BAD: Honestly, we didn't play very well in the final.
GOOD: To be honest, we didn't play very well in the final.
BAD: Honestly, I don't really like her husband.
GOOD: To tell you the truth, I don't really like her husband.
Usage Note:Use
honestly when you want someone to believe that what you are saying is really true: 'I honestly don't mind where we go, as long as we go somewhere.' 'I was going to give it back to you, honestly.'
To show someone that you are about to tell them your own true feelings about something (especially feelings that you usually keep secret), use
to be honest (with you), in all honesty, to tell (you) the truth, (quite) frankly or
to be frank : 'In all honesty, I'll be glad when the children are back at school.' 'To tell you the truth, I don't think that the marriage will last long.'
2. BAD: I honestly say that I haven't seen anyone work so hard.
GOOD: I can honestly say that I haven't seen anyone work so hard.
Usage Note:I can honestly say (WITH
can ): 'I can honestly say this is the worst film I've ever seen.'
[TahlilGaran] Dictionary of Common Errors ▲