The phrase "were up-front" suggests that someone is honest, straightforward, or candid. On the other hand, some antonyms for "up-front" may include "dishonest," "evasive," "sly," or "deceptive." If someone is not up-front, they may be withholding information, avoiding the truth, or being unclear in their communication. Other antonyms could include "manipulative," "insincere," or "dissembling." It's important to pay attention to whether someone is being up-front or not, as this can impact trust and the quality of communication in any given situation. Ultimately, being up-front and honest is generally considered a positive trait, both personally and professionally.