From Old English *forð* ("forward, onward") + *riht* ("straight, right"). The literal sense is "going straight forward," which shifted by the 17th century to describe someone who speaks or acts in a straight, direct manner — no detours, no hidden agendas.

Forthrightness is often praised as a virtue in Northern European and North American professional cultures, where plain speaking signals trustworthiness. However, in contexts where indirect communication is the norm (e.g. certain East Asian or Middle Eastern settings), the same directness may be perceived as blunt or even rude. Be aware of your audience! Also note the near-synonym *forthcoming*, which implies a readiness to *volunteer* information, while *forthright* stresses boldness and candour.