Aboveboard
What it means
Openly honest and conducted without concealed deception.
Reach for it when praising a process whose transparency makes it trustworthy
The aboveboard selection process published every criterion and score.
Words to choose between 7
| everyday | |
|---|---|
| warm | |
| professional | |
| formal |
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everyday
Fits when truthfulness is the central character judgment
Careful Honest can describe a statement without showing that the whole process was open.
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everyday
Fits when access and lack of secrecy are the main qualities
Careful Open can mean available or receptive without implying ethical conduct.
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warm
Fits when direct communication deserves praise
Careful Forthright may be blunt and does not address hidden procedural conflicts.
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professional
Fits when the arrangement has no hidden complications
Careful Straightforward can describe simplicity even when motives remain undisclosed.
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professional
Fits when information and decision logic are visible for inspection
Careful Visible details can accompany dishonest conduct; transparency alone is not enough.
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formal
Fits when lawful authority or recognized validity is in question
Careful A legitimate arrangement can still be handled privately rather than aboveboard.
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formal
Fits when careful adherence to ethical rules deserves emphasis
Careful Scrupulous focuses on conscience and precision, not public visibility.
Opposites 3
- deceptive
- underhanded
- secretive
Common phrases 3
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completely aboveboard
The auditors found the grant process completely aboveboard.
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keep things aboveboard
Written bids help keep things aboveboard for every supplier.
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aboveboard transaction
Both parties documented the aboveboard transaction in plain language.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Updated