not decorated or elaborate; simple or basic in character, easily understood; clear, a large area of flat land with few trees

plain sailing, plain and simple, in plain sight

Formal and Informal Expressions of plain

In different contexts, you can replace 'plain' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'unadorned, unembellished' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'simple, basic' is a commonplace synonym.

plain: Explore its Definition & Usage

plain Definition

1not decorated or elaborate; simple or basic in character
2easily understood; clear
3a large area of flat land with few trees

Using plain: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "plain" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
She wore a plain black dress to the funeral.
Example
The instructions were written in plain English.
Example
The Midwest is known for its vast plains.

plain Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for plain

Antonyms for plain

Phrases with plain

plain sailing
an easy and uncomplicated task
Example
The project was plain sailing once we got the funding.
plain and simple
used to emphasize that something is straightforward and uncomplicated
Example
He's lazy, plain and simple.
in plain sight
visible and obvious
Example
The key was in plain sight on the kitchen counter.

Origins of plain

from Old French 'plain', from Latin 'planus'

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Summary: plain in Brief

The term 'plain' [pleɪn] refers to something that is not decorated or elaborate, such as a plain black dress. It can also mean easily understood, as in instructions written in plain English. Additionally, it can refer to a large area of flat land with few trees, like the Midwest plains. Phrases like 'plain sailing' denote an easy task, while 'plain and simple' emphasizes straightforwardness.