To be perfectly frank

Meaning

To be completely honest, even if it might be unpleasant.

Examples

• John: I didn’t enjoy the play.
• Alice: Oh, really? Why not?
• John: <b>To be perfectly frank</b>, I found the acting rather wooden.
• Alice: I see. Well, <b>to be perfectly frank</b>, I felt the same, though I thought the set design was brilliant.