Plain and simple

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Plain and simple" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to emphasize that something is straightforward or uncomplicated. Example: "The answer to the question is plain and simple: we need to work harder to meet our goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Plain and simple: branding.

Independent

"Plain and simple," he said.

The New York Times

Plain and simple, he's good".

The New York Times - Sports

Plain and simple; no spin needed".

The New Yorker

Plain and simple, it makes me happy.

The New York Times

Plain and simple, we were adversaries.

The Guardian - Books

Plain and simple solitude.

Huffington Post

Plain and simple right there.

Huffington Post

We're plain and simple".

The New York Times

"It's pretty plain and simple.

The New York Times - Sports

That's it, plain and simple".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Plain and simple" to emphasize a point, ensuring your message is easily understood and avoids unnecessary complexity.

Common error

Avoid using "Plain and simple" excessively, as it can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Vary your language with synonyms like "clear and straightforward" or "simple as that".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Plain and simple" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a statement to emphasize its clarity and lack of complexity. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is commonly used to underscore a point and ensure there's no room for misinterpretation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "Plain and simple" is a very common and grammatically correct expression used to emphasize clarity and directness. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it serves to underscore a point, ensuring it's easily understood. Predominantly found in News & Media, the phrase offers a versatile register applicable across various communication styles. When writing, use it to accentuate key points, but avoid overuse to maintain impact. For alternatives, consider phrases like "clear and straightforward" or "simple as that".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Uncomplicated

Highlights the lack of complexity, a central theme in the meaning of "Plain and simple".

Direct and clear

Stresses both the straightforwardness and the clarity of communication, much like "Plain and simple".

Clear and straightforward

Highlights the ease of understanding and lack of ambiguity, akin to "Plain and simple".

Simple as that

Emphasizes the lack of further explanation needed, similar to "Plain and simple" in its directness.

Easy to understand

Directly addresses the comprehensibility of something, mirroring the clarity emphasized by "Plain and simple".

Cut and dried

Implies something is definitively settled and clear-cut, similar to "Plain and simple" but with a stronger sense of finality.

Point blank

Indicates a direct and unambiguous statement, sharing the no-nonsense quality of "Plain and simple".

No frills

Focuses on the absence of unnecessary additions or complications, sharing a core concept with "Plain and simple".

Without a doubt

Emphasizes certainty and lack of ambiguity, implying the situation is undeniably "Plain and simple".

In a nutshell

Suggests a concise and uncomplicated summary, similar to getting to the essence of something "Plain and simple".

FAQs

How can I use "Plain and simple" in a sentence?

"Plain and simple" is used to emphasize that something is clear, direct, and easily understood. For example, "The truth, "plain and simple", is that we need more resources."

What are some alternatives to "Plain and simple"?

Alternatives include "cut and dried", "simple as that", or "clear and straightforward". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "Plain and simple" formal or informal?

It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it's generally more suitable for situations where directness and clarity are valued over elaborate language.

What does "Plain and simple" actually mean?

It means that something is easy to understand and doesn't involve any complexities or hidden meanings. It suggests that the information is presented in a straightforward and unambiguous way.