What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
clear
Example
The instructions were clear and easy to follow. [clear: adjective]
Example
She spoke clearly so that everyone could understand her. [clearly: adverb]
plain
Example
He gave a plain explanation of the problem. [plain: adjective]
Example
She prefers plain clothes without any patterns or designs. [plain: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clear is more commonly used than plain in everyday language. Clear is versatile and can be used in a wide range of contexts, while plain is more limited in its usage and often specific to describing simplicity or appearance.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between clear and plain?
Both clear and plain can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, clear is generally considered more formal due to its broader usage and association with clarity of communication.
