Meaning 1
Open and direct about relevant facts, intentions, or difficulties.
Reach for it when Praising early honesty that lets others make an informed choice.
The builder was upfront about the delay before accepting a deposit.
Meaning 2
Paid, stated, or required at the beginning.
Reach for it when Describing a cost, commitment, or benefit that occurs before later stages.
The cooperative charges no upfront fee for the training course.
| Meaning 1 | Meaning 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| everyday |
| |
| warm | ||
| professional | ||
| formal |
warm
Fits when communication avoids games or concealment
Not when can describe simplicity rather than honesty
professional
Fits when relevant information and process are visible
Not when may concern systems more than personal candor
formal
Fits when honest opinion is shared without disguise
Not necessarily shared early
formal
Fits when difficult facts are stated plainly
Not when can sound blunt rather than considerate
everyday
initial
Fits when the first-stage amount or step is meant
Not when an initial cost may not be prepaid
professional
Fits when payment or notice occurs before the main event
Not when does not always mean at the very beginning
professional
prepaid
Fits when money is paid before use
Not when narrower than an upfront commitment or disclosure
be upfront
Please be upfront about which repairs can wait.
upfront explanation
An upfront explanation of the risks earned the family's trust.
upfront cost
The upfront cost is higher, but repairs are included for ten years.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Vealhurl, Southern England accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0 Updated
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