What is plain? Pronunciation and usage in English

plain means . Learn how to pronounce and use plain through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of plain

plainadjective

/pleɪn/
Definition & pronunciation of plain

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "plain" in English. It's a tricky one for some learners! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and correct pronunciation is: /pleɪn/

Let's break that down phonetically:

  • /p/: Like the "p" in "pen" – a quick, brief sound.
  • /leɪ/: This is the tricky part! It's a diphthong (a gliding vowel sound). It’s similar to the "ay" in "say" or "day". Think of it as starting with a short "e" sound and then gliding upwards and slightly back. Many people find this the hardest part.
  • /n/: Like the "n" in "no."

Putting it all together: “Playn” – almost like saying “play and then n.”

Here's what it doesn't sound like:

  • Not like "plane" (as in the airplane) – that’s /pleɪn/ (with a long “a” sound).
  • Not like "pain" - that’s /peɪn/.

Tips for getting it right:

Would you like me to:

  • Give you some example sentences using the word "plain"?
  • Focus on practicing the "lay" sound specifically?

Usage and examples with the word plain in English

Let's break down how to use the word "plain" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with multiple meanings! Here's a categorized breakdown:

1. Plain (Adjective - describing appearance/style)

  • Simple and Unadorned: This is probably the most common meaning. It describes something that lacks decoration, embellishment, or complexity.

    • Example: "The room was decorated in a plain style, with beige walls and minimal furniture."
    • Example: "I prefer a plain t-shirt to one with lots of logos."
    • Synonyms: simple, basic, unadorned, unassuming, modest

  • Bare or Naked: Referring to a lack of covering.

    • Example: “The plain land stretched out before us, untouched by buildings.”
    • Example: "She wore a plain black dress."

  • Color (Pale): It can describe a light, pale shade of color.

    • Example: “She has plain hair – a light blonde shade.”
    • Example: "The sky was a plain blue."

2. Plain (Adjective - describing truth/clarity)

  • Clear and Unambiguous: This means straightforward, honest, and without confusion.

    • Example: “He gave a plain answer to the question.” (Meaning a direct, honest answer.)
    • Example: "Let's be plain with ourselves, this project is failing." (Meaning be honest and straightforward about the failure.)
    • Synonyms: direct, frank, honest, transparent, candid

  • Expressing a Simple Fact:

    • Example: “The doctor said it was plain to see I needed a break.” (Meaning obvious and clear)

3. Plain (Noun - describing a surface/area)

  • A Flat Surface: Referring to a level, unsloped area.

    • Example: “The plain of the table was sticky.”
    • Example: “They camped on a plain near the river.”

  • A Flat Area of Land: Specifically a large, open area without hills or mountains.

    • Example: "The Serengeti is a vast African plain."

4. Plain (Verb - less common, but important)

  • To Make Plain: To explain or clarify something.
    • Example: “Can you plain to me how this system works?” (Meaning, can you explain it clearly?)

Here's a table to summarize:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Adjective Simple, Unadorned A plain white wall.
Adjective Clear, Unambiguous He gave a plain explanation.
Adjective Pale Color She wore a plain blue dress.
Adjective Flat Surface/Land The plain of the desk.
Noun Flat Surface/Land They walked across the plain.
Verb To Explain/Clarify Please plain the instructions.

Tips for Using "Plain" Correctly:

  • Context is Key: The meaning of "plain" will almost always be clear from the context of the sentence.
  • Don't Overuse: While versatile, it can sound repetitive if you use it too often.
  • Consider Alternatives: Depending on the nuance you want to convey, you might find other words that fit better (e.g., simple, basic, straightforward, frank).

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you thinking about where you want to use the word "plain"? (e.g., describing a room, talking about a conversation, writing a story?)

Synonyms for the word plain

Idioms of the word plain

be plain sailing
to be simple and free from trouble
    in plain English
    simply and clearly expressed, without using technical language
    • a document written in plain English
    • If you could put it in plain English I might be able to understand.
    • Teachers should encourage students to write in plain English.
    (as) plain as a pikestaff | (as) plain as day | (as) plain as the nose on your face
    very obvious

      Practice with vocabulary plain

      Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

      1. The financial report presented the data in a __________ manner, making it accessible to non-experts.
      2. Despite its rather __________ exterior, the building's interior design was remarkably intricate.
      3. After the initial confusion, the manager's instructions became __________ to everyone involved in the project.
      4. The new software interface is designed to be highly intuitive, requiring only a __________ understanding of technology.

      Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (There may be multiple correct answers per question)

      1. Which of the following describes a presentation that is easy to understand and free of unnecessary jargon? A) ornate B) convoluted C) plain D) elaborate E) straightforward

      2. When a situation is undeniable and readily apparent to everyone, it can be described as: A) ambiguous B) subtle C) obscure D) plain E) evident

      3. Choose the best word(s) to complete the sentence: The architect opted for a __________ design, emphasizing functionality over decorative elements. A) flamboyant B) extravagant C) plain D) minimalist E) ostentatious

      4. Which word best describes a person who is humble and unpretentious in their behavior? A) pompous B) unassuming C) arrogant D) ostentatious

      5. A critical review should provide __________ feedback, addressing both strengths and weaknesses directly. A) vague B) constructive C) evasive D) ambiguous

      Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

      1. Original: The meaning of the company's new policy was very easy for everyone to grasp, leaving no room for misunderstanding. Rewrite using "plain" or a related word form:

      2. Original: For the official presentation, the speaker chose a very simple and unembellished outfit. Rewrite using "plain" or a related word form:

      3. Original: The instructions for assembling the new furniture were extremely easy to follow, even for someone without prior experience. Rewrite without using "plain" or any of its word forms:

      Answer:

      Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

      1. plain
      2. unassuming
      3. plain
      4. basic

      Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

      1. C) plain, E) straightforward
      2. D) plain, E) evident
      3. C) plain, D) minimalist
      4. B) unassuming
      5. B) constructive

      Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

      1. The meaning of the company's new policy was plain, leaving no room for misunderstanding.
      2. For the official presentation, the speaker chose a plain outfit.
      3. The instructions for assembling the new furniture were straightforward, even for someone without prior experience.

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