clean plot

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clean plot" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a narrative or storyline that is straightforward, clear, and free of unnecessary complications or subplots. Example: "The author crafted a clean plot that kept readers engaged from start to finish without any confusing twists."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Images are too clean, plots and characters dull and formulaic.

The Guardian - Film

Originally titled "A Matter of Breeding", director Corey Allen said the episode intended to move away from the "squeaky clean" plots of Star Trek: The Next Generation.

Wikipedia

Small tests have been run at some sites on the federal Superfund list of worst toxic spills, and a growing number of larger projects have successfully cleaned plots where pollution is not as severe but still violates standards.

The New York Times - Science

Differences between cleaned plots and those from control plots in terms of decreased percentage of organic matter, decreased total abundance and changed community structure were noticed from immediately after the experimental cleaning onwards and recovered to initial values after the following high water.

Marine Environmental Research

She certainly makes it persuasively in the clean, intelligently plotted installation she has come up with here.

The New York Times - Arts

One of these "activist interventions" is a group called Atenistas, which has collected chewing gum from sidewalks, cleaned abandoned plots of land, and painted and decorated neglected city corners – all in the aim of "affirming their share of responsibility in improving the image of their city".

The Guardian

But opponents note that tests conducted by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power showed that a grandmother using a rake and broom took only twenty per cent longer to clean a test plot than a gardener with a blower.

The New Yorker

"Besharam" is frequently crude, but it's also unusually clean in its plotting.

The New York Times

The adapter sequences and low quality sequences were removed from the raw data, and the length distributions of the clean reads were plotted.

BMC Plant Biology

His address book included handwritten notes that prosecutors called a plot "blueprint": "Clean batteries, perfect disguise, drink bottles," and "Check time to fill each bottle".

The New York Times

Pelecanos is a restless talent, but his books share a goal in common, which is to offer "a good story told with clean, efficient writing, a plot involving a problem to be solved or surmounted, and everyday characters the reader could relate to".

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for a "clean plot", focus on a single, compelling narrative thread. Avoid unnecessary subplots or tangents that could dilute the main storyline and confuse the audience.

Common error

Avoid adding too many twists or characters in an attempt to make the "clean plot" more interesting. Sometimes, simplicity and clarity are more engaging than complexity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clean plot" functions as a noun phrase where "clean" modifies the noun "plot". It describes a narrative structure characterized by simplicity and clarity, free from unnecessary complexity. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "clean plot" describes a narrative that is straightforward and easy to understand, devoid of unnecessary complications. While Ludwig's examples are limited and don't show frequent usage, Ludwig AI considers it a grammatically sound expression. Alternative phrases like "clear narrative" or "simple design" can be used for variety. When writing, aim for a single compelling narrative and avoid overcomplicating the plot with too many twists.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clear narrative

Emphasizes the absence of ambiguity and ease of understanding in the storyline.

uncomplicated story

Highlights the simplicity and lack of complex elements in the narrative.

straightforward storyline

Focuses on the direct and uncomplicated nature of the plot progression.

simple design

Shifts the context from narrative to design, emphasizing minimalism and lack of clutter.

efficient plan

Replaces "plot" with "plan", stressing effectiveness and lack of wasted effort.

logical sequence

Focuses on the rational and coherent arrangement of events or steps.

well-defined layout

Emphasizes clarity and structure in the arrangement of elements, often in a visual or spatial context.

streamlined design

Highlights the efficiency and lack of unnecessary elements in a design context.

precise scheme

Underscores the exactness and clarity of a plan or arrangement.

neat arrangement

Emphasizes orderliness and lack of mess in the arrangement of elements.

FAQs

How can I ensure my plot stays "clean"?

Focus on a central conflict and resolve it directly. Remove any subplots that don't directly contribute to the main story, and ensure each scene moves the narrative forward. "Clear narrative" planning helps.

What does a "clean plot" mean in storytelling?

It refers to a straightforward and easy-to-follow storyline without unnecessary complications or convoluted elements. Think of it as a "uncomplicated story" that is well-structured and easy for the audience to understand.

Is a "clean plot" always better than a complex one?

Not necessarily. It depends on the story you're trying to tell and your target audience. A "clean plot" is effective when clarity and simplicity are valued, while complex plots can offer depth and intrigue if executed well. The key is to know your audience and what type of narrative they appreciate.

What are the benefits of using a "clean plot" in writing?

A "clean plot" can make your story more accessible and engaging for a wider audience. It reduces the risk of confusing readers with unnecessary details and allows you to focus on character development and thematic exploration more effectively. A "straightforward storyline" often leads to a more satisfying and impactful reading experience.