DictionaryplainClear or obvious
adjective / adverb

plain

Clear and easy to understand or recognize.

The doctor explains the results in plain language everyone understands.

Etymology

The older idea of a level, unobstructed surface extended to what is readily visible or understood. A plain statement presents no difficulty or obscurity.

More examples

  • Her disappointment is plain to everyone in the room.
  • I'll be plain with you: we can't afford this.
  • Ignoring that warning is just plain foolish.

Forms

plain · plainer · plainest

plainly adverb — In a clear or obvious way.

Similar words

clear
Emphasizes ease of understanding rather than direct, unsoftened wording.
obvious
Emphasizes how readily something is noticed, not its wording.
blunt
Means directly stated, often with little concern for feelings.