clearly and plainly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clearly and plainly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to emphasize that something is expressed in a straightforward and understandable manner. Example: "The instructions were written clearly and plainly, making it easy for everyone to follow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

He wished, he said, to speak clearly and plainly, and that is what he did.

The New Yorker

So let me say it clearly and plainly: the unemployment rate is not fake and it is not tricked up.

The Guardian - Business

Grammar is not just about learning sentence construction: it's about speaking clearly and plainly and cutting through obfustication.

The Guardian - Books

"They struck down the order completely because it was clearly and plainly overbroad and not supported by any showing of substantial need".

The Guardian

And so in that spirit, let me speak as clearly and plainly as I can about some specific issues that I believe we must finally confront together.

The Guardian

He writes, "Now and then in the course of an artist's biographical history, it comes time to strip away the decades of accumulated theories and postures and look at the subject as clearly and plainly as possible".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

It's just my job to bear witness to that which is TRUE and REAL by explaining what Shinran says as clearly and as plainly as I possibly can - and point out where others are mangling his words for their own ends.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The commonwealth's highest court earlier this year ruled that a map drawn by Republican leaders in 2011 "clearly, plainly and palpably" violated the free-and-equal-elections clause of the Pennsylvania Constitution.

The Washington Post

The State Supreme Court ruled on Jan . 22that the map "clearly, plainly and palpably" violated the State Constitution and ordered the map redrawn.

The New York Times

The Democratic-controlled state supreme court said the current boundaries "clearly, plainly and palpably" violated the Pennsylvania constitution, and blocked the map from remaining in effect for the 2018 elections.

The Guardian

The Democratic-controlled court said the boundaries "clearly, plainly and palpably" violated the state's constitution, and blocked the map from remaining in effect for the 2018 elections.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "clearly and plainly" when you want to ensure your message is easily understood and leaves no room for misinterpretation. It's particularly effective in instructions, explanations, and when addressing a diverse audience.

Common error

While "clearly and plainly" is generally acceptable, excessive use in highly formal or academic writing can sound repetitive. Consider using more sophisticated synonyms to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clearly and plainly" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe how an action is performed. As shown by Ludwig, this indicates the manner of communication, emphasizing directness and a lack of ambiguity.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "clearly and plainly" is an adverbial phrase that emphasizes directness and simplicity in communication. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and its function of ensuring understanding while mitigating potential misinterpretations. Although it is common across various contexts, its frequency is notable in news and media. While its neutral register makes it widely applicable, it should be used thoughtfully in formal settings. Synonyms include "in simple terms" and "in a straightforward manner", offering alternatives based on specific nuances. The key takeaway is to use "clearly and plainly" to promote comprehension and avoid ambiguity, particularly when addressing diverse audiences or simplifying complex information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In a clear and straightforward manner

Emphasizes the absence of ambiguity and complication.

To put it simply

Introduces a simplified explanation of a concept.

In simple terms

Focuses on using uncomplicated language, suitable for a general audience.

In plain language

Highlights the use of ordinary, easily understandable language.

Unambiguously

Highlights the lack of multiple interpretations.

Directly and explicitly

Stresses forthrightness and a lack of implied meaning.

Without obfuscation

Indicates the removal of anything that could confuse or obscure the message.

Candidly and openly

Implies honesty and a willingness to share information without reservation.

Straight from the shoulder

Emphasizes a blunt, unvarnished approach.

Pointedly

Highlights directness, sometimes with the intention of making a strong impression.

FAQs

How can I use "clearly and plainly" in a sentence?

You can use "clearly and plainly" to emphasize the directness and simplicity of a statement. For example, "The instructions were written "clearly and plainly", making it easy for everyone to follow."

What are some alternatives to saying "clearly and plainly"?

Alternatives include "in simple terms", "in a straightforward manner", or "unambiguously", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Each of these ("in simple terms", "in a straightforward manner", "unambiguously") varies subtly in emphasis.

Is it redundant to say "clearly and plainly"?

While both words share similar meanings, using them together emphasizes the intent to be absolutely unambiguous and easily understood. The redundancy can be effective for adding emphasis in certain contexts.

In what situations is "clearly and plainly" most appropriate?

It's best used when simplifying complex information for a broad audience or when you need to avoid any possibility of misunderstanding. It suits explanations, instructions, or declarations where precision and clarity are paramount.