meaning - What is the difference between candidly and honestly?


In almost every dictionary, candidly and honestly are explained as having the same meaning.


Still, I'm pretty sure there must be some difference, whether big or tiny. Any reasonable tip would be much appreciated!



Answer



Candid and honest do not mean the same thing--they don't even have similar word roots.


Let's start with "candid." This word means "openness" and "not scripted or rehearsed." During the 70s, there was a popular American TV show called "Candid Camera" hosted by Alan Funt. We did not call it "Honest Camera." The show featured raw film footage of people in candid situations. It was not scripted and showed sincere and genuine reactions of ordinary people.


We use the word "candid" to talk about politicians' answers and interviews with actors. We say "candid interview" not "honest interview." In a candid interview, a person might not have access to the questions beforehand, or have thought out answers, or be as scripted. If a politician or actor were involved in a scandal, you can be sure they will not participate in a candid interview.


The word honest means "not deceptive, fair, or displaying integrity." We want policemen who are honest, judges who display honesty, and politicians that give honest answers. The key word is "not deceptive." Candid has nothing to do with deception, trickery, fraud, or cheating, things which the light of honesty combats.


The words have started to be used interchangeably because people confuse "unscripted" with "honest."


We want honest not candid politicians. Donald Trump is an example of a candid politician. He's being honest about his answers but I prefer he were less candid in his responses. Usually, the more experience a politician has the less candid they are, which can be frustrating for voters who think everything is scripted and designed to manipulate. Candid responses such as Trump's often cause people to grimace or cringe.


Policemen typically do not speak candidly about subjects because the stakes are high. They have practiced responses and ways of dealing with things that protect and serve the greater purpose of justice. In the current situation in America, many people will laugh at what I just said, but ideally we believe this. We do want policemen who are honest and give honest answers.


Candid answers are usually spontaneous and people are called to task for them. "I misspoke" is a response when criticized for a candid answer.


There is some overlap with these words but the overlap is not a majority.


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