how to use "to be honest"

[goodstudent]

Sometimes I see "to be honest" in some sentences. What does it mean and how to use it?

Thanks

 

[ref1]

it means Frankly, honestly
source: en.wiktionary.org/wiki/to_be_honest

 

[Barb_D]

Usually you use this because what you are about to say will not be perceived favorably. "I'm not being mean or intentionally cruel, but giving an honest opinion."

 

[JMurray]

It means something like "speaking frankly", "this might sound a bit harsh but…" or just "this is how I genuinely see the situation" etc.
Some typical contexts...
I know she tried hard to get this paella right but, to be honest, I've tasted better.
To be honest, I don't think John's as smart as he thinks he is.
I know you're a big fan but, to be honest, I don't like any of Johnny Depp's films.
They may or may not fire me for this. I don't care either way, to be honest.
Although the apology is welcome, to be honest, it's too little too late".

not a teacher

ps: pretty much what Barb says but with some examples.

 

[shannico]

You could also say in fairness/in all fairness

To be honest (with you)/In fairness, I think you could have put a little bit more effort into this assignment.

 

[TheParser]

***** NOT A TEACHER *****


When a wife asks her husband, "Be honest. Am I getting a little fat?," he had better not be honest!

 

[shannico]

And if the husband says "In all fairness, darling, I think you are not", he won't stand a chance his wife will believe him all the same...

***** NOT A TEACHER *****


When a wife asks her husband, "Be honest. Am I getting a little fat?," he had better not be honest!