a substantially plainer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a substantially plainer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the simplicity or lack of adornment of something to another, emphasizing a significant difference in plainness. Example: "The new design is a substantially plainer version of the original, focusing on functionality over aesthetics."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The result is a substantially enlarged brain.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Or a substantially higher fine for littering.

The New York Times

It is a substantially impaired driver.

Los Angeles Times

As the sensitivity differs substantially between plain radiographs and MRI regarding identification of the early stages of Charcot, we included both a modified Eichenhotz staging based on plain radiographs as described by Sella and Barrette (1999) and an MRI-based identification of early inflammation-induced signs of Charcot arthropathy (Chantelau and Grutzner 2014).

Acta Orthopaedica

The developed system was designed for intravenous route and was observed to be substantially haemo-compatible with an enhancement of approx. 5 times in AUC vis-a-vis plain drug.

International Journal of Biological Macromolecules

First, though, a few plainer facts.

The New Yorker

Russian respondents assessed the attractiveness of both seacoasts and rivers significantly higher than forests and swampy plains and substantially higher than waterless plains.

Progress in Earth and Planetary Science

Get a plain shirt without a collar.

WikiHow

A bit plain, actually.

The New York Times - Arts

You Are Outside On A Treeless Plain.

Forbes

It is a lie, plain and simple.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing two versions of something, use "a substantially plainer" to emphasize that the new version is significantly less ornamented or complex than the original.

Common error

Avoid using "a substantially plainer" in highly formal or technical writing. More precise language might be required to convey the specific difference in complexity or ornamentation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a substantially plainer" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase, typically used to modify a noun. It indicates that something is significantly simpler or less ornamented compared to something else. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a substantially plainer" is a grammatically sound and understandable way to describe something as significantly simpler or less ornamented than another. Though Ludwig confirms its usability, the absence of real-world examples suggests that it is not a very common phrase. When employing this phrase, consider the level of formality required and adjust your language accordingly. While suitable for general descriptions, more precise language may be necessary for technical or highly formal contexts. Consider alternatives like "significantly simpler", "considerably more basic", or "noticeably less elaborate" to enhance clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significantly simpler

Focuses on simplicity more directly, using 'simpler' instead of 'plainer'.

considerably more basic

Emphasizes the fundamental aspects, using 'basic' to highlight the lack of complexity.

noticeably less elaborate

Highlights the absence of intricate details or ornamentation.

markedly more unadorned

Stresses the lack of decoration or embellishment.

appreciably more straightforward

Indicates directness and ease of understanding or use.

much more austere

Emphasizes severity and lack of luxury or comfort.

substantially more rudimentary

Suggests a basic or undeveloped form.

considerably more minimalist

Highlights a design or style that uses the fewest and simplest elements.

significantly more spartan

Emphasizes simplicity, frugality, or avoidance of luxury and comfort.

noticeably more unpretentious

Indicates a lack of affectation, modesty.

FAQs

How can I use "a substantially plainer" in a sentence?

You can use "a substantially plainer" to describe something that is significantly simpler or less ornamented than something else. For example, "The new user interface is "a substantially plainer" version of the previous one, focusing on ease of use."

What are some alternatives to "a substantially plainer"?

Some alternatives include "significantly simpler", "considerably more basic", or "noticeably less elaborate" depending on the specific context.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "a substantially plainer"?

This phrase is suitable when you want to emphasize a significant difference in simplicity or lack of ornamentation between two things. It's appropriate in general writing and descriptions, but should be avoided in highly technical or formal contexts where more precise language might be necessary.

How does "a substantially plainer" differ from "a slightly plainer"?

"A substantially plainer" indicates a significant difference in simplicity or lack of ornamentation, whereas "a slightly plainer" suggests only a small or minor difference. The choice depends on the degree of difference you want to convey.