is rather plain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is rather plain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that lacks embellishment or is simple in appearance or style. Example: "The design of the website is rather plain, lacking any vibrant colors or intricate graphics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The interior is rather plain.

The New York Times - Travel

It's not the most advanced, its cameras are weak and its design is rather plain, but it is surprising just how useable its software and services are.

The Guardian - Tech

The 2015 cup that Starbucks describes as "a two-toned ombré design, with a bright poppy color on top that shades into a darker cranberry below" is rather plain compared to past versions that featured ornaments and reindeer.

The New Yorker

As a whole, the interior is rather plain and functional, well assembled from plastic materials of average quality -- though those who judge sports cars based on interior trim are probably not driving enough.

The New York Times

She is not beautiful, but instead is rather plain looking.

Huffington Post

Uh-oh...: The décor is rather plain and restrooms are in another building (nearby).

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

And despite it's rather plain and bland aesthetics, the app does the job it promises.

The Guardian - Tech

Photographers are given strict instructions not to shoot the right side, as he thinks it's rather plain.

The Guardian

The 15 species of becards (comprising the genera Platypsaris and Pachyramphus) are rather plain, small birds with thick bills hooked at the tip.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Unlike Ettie, with her "true gypsy beauty", the future Mrs Kilvert was rather plain, but her charitable interests made her perfect for a vicar's wife.

The Guardian - Books

His crozier and signet ring were found in his grave, and they were rather plain.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is rather plain", consider the context and audience. While grammatically sound, it can sometimes come across as mildly critical or dismissive. Adjust your phrasing accordingly if a more positive or neutral tone is desired.

Common error

Avoid overusing "rather" in your writing, as it can make your prose sound stilted or overly formal. Vary your vocabulary with synonyms like 'quite', 'fairly', or 'somewhat' to maintain a natural and engaging style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is rather plain" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase. It qualifies a noun by indicating its simplicity or lack of ornamentation. Ludwig examples show it describing appearance or design.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

33%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is rather plain" is a grammatically correct and usable English phrase to describe something lacking complexity or ornamentation. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is acceptable. While not overly common, it appears across various contexts, particularly in news media, encyclopedias and wiki sources. When using the phrase, be mindful of the potentially mildy critical tone and adjust based on context. Alternatives include "is quite simple" or "is fairly unadorned". Overusing "rather" can make your prose sound unnatural, so vary your vocabulary for a more engaging style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is quite simple

Replaces "rather plain" with "quite simple", emphasizing the lack of complexity.

is fairly unadorned

Substitutes "rather plain" with "fairly unadorned", highlighting the absence of decoration.

is somewhat basic

Replaces "rather plain" with "somewhat basic", suggesting a fundamental or elementary quality.

is a bit unremarkable

Changes "rather plain" to "a bit unremarkable", focusing on the lack of distinctiveness.

is quite ordinary

Substitutes "rather plain" with "quite ordinary", indicating a common or typical nature.

is fairly conventional

Replaces "rather plain" with "fairly conventional", highlighting adherence to established norms and lack of innovation.

is somewhat modest

Changes "rather plain" to "somewhat modest", suggesting a lack of extravagance or pretension.

is a little drab

Replaces "rather plain" with "a little drab", emphasizing a lack of vibrancy or interest.

is quite austere

Substitutes "rather plain" with "quite austere", highlighting simplicity and a lack of ornamentation, often with a sense of severity.

is somewhat understated

Changes "rather plain" to "somewhat understated", suggesting a deliberate lack of emphasis or flashiness.

FAQs

How can I use "is rather plain" in a sentence?

You can use "is rather plain" to describe something that lacks embellishment or visual appeal. For example, "The design of the room is rather plain, lacking any vibrant colors or intricate details."

What are some alternatives to "is rather plain"?

Alternatives include "is quite simple", "is fairly unadorned", or "is somewhat basic", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to describe something as "is rather plain"?

While grammatically correct, using "is rather plain" might be perceived as somewhat negative. Consider whether a more neutral or positive phrasing would be more suitable for your context.

What does "is rather plain" imply about the subject?

"Is rather plain" suggests that the subject lacks distinctive features or embellishments, appearing simple or ordinary. It might imply a lack of visual interest, but it doesn't necessarily denote a negative quality.