in a direct and unequivocal manner; I asked him point-blank whether he wanted the job'

characterized by directness in manner or speech; without subtlety or evasion; blunt talking and straight shooting; a blunt New England farmer; I gave them my candid opinion; forthright criticism; a forthright approach to the problem; tell me what you think--and you may just as well be frank; it is possible to be outspoken without being rude; plainspoken and to the point; a point-blank accusation

[ Syn: blunt , candid , forthright , frank , free-spoken , outspoken , plainspoken , straight-from-the-shoulder ]

close enough to go straight to the target; point-blank range; a point-blank shot'