it became plain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it became plain" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something has become clear or obvious over time. Example: "After reviewing the evidence, it became plain that the defendant was not guilty."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

And, once it became plain that all hope was chimerical, the armies did break.

The New Yorker

During baseball's steroids era it became plain that plenty of players were using extra help.

The Economist

As television crews gathered, it became plain that none of this would bring the statue down.

The Economist

In interviews with residents, it became plain that there was little sympathy for the rioters.

The New York Times

Later on, it became plain that he suffered from severe depression.

The New Yorker

However, it became plain that Khan is unlikely to do some of the difficult things required to achieve it.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

But numbers are dwindling as it becomes plain that there is little money on offer.

The Economist

As the show proceeds, it becomes plain that everyone he meets is as won over by Grant as we are.

Independent

But after a while it becomes plain that Mr. LeDuff has his reasons for stripping bare in public.

The New York Times - Books

But there's only so much you can luxuriate in your own insolence before it becomes plain old smug.

The New Yorker

Hazzard records this, and it becomes plain that the damaging things she tells are testimony, not judgment.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it became plain" to indicate a gradual realization or understanding of something, rather than a sudden revelation. This adds nuance to your writing.

Common error

While "it became plain" is grammatically correct, avoid overusing passive constructions in your writing. Sometimes, an active voice can make your sentences more direct and engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it became plain" functions as an impersonal construction indicating that a fact or situation has become clear or obvious. It typically introduces a clause explaining what became evident. Examples from Ludwig show it used in contexts ranging from political analysis to personal realizations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it became plain" is a grammatically correct and versatile expression used to indicate that something has become clear or obvious. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a common phrase found in various contexts, particularly in news and media, and encyclopedic sources. While similar to alternatives like "it was clear" or "it was obvious", "it became plain" often suggests a more gradual realization. When using this phrase, be mindful of the potential for passive voice and consider whether an active construction might be more impactful. Its frequent usage across authoritative sources underscores its reliability and effectiveness in conveying a shift in understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was clear

Replaces "became plain" with a more direct statement of clarity, omitting the sense of a gradual realization.

it was obvious

Similar to "it was clear", this emphasizes the readily apparent nature of something.

it was evident

A more formal alternative suggesting that something is easily perceived, often based on evidence.

it became apparent

Similar in meaning, but slightly more formal and emphasizes the gradual revealing of something.

it transpired

Implies that something was revealed or proved to be the case, often unexpectedly.

it emerged

Suggests that information or a fact came to light after a period of obscurity.

it was realized

Focuses on the moment of understanding or recognition.

it dawned on

Suggests a sudden or gradual realization of something.

it was understood

Emphasizes a mutual agreement or comprehension.

it was no secret

Indicates that something was widely known or easily discovered.

FAQs

How can I use "it became plain" in a sentence?

You can use "it became plain" to indicate that something gradually became clear or obvious. For example, "After reviewing all the data, "it became plain" that the initial hypothesis was incorrect."

What's the difference between "it became plain" and "it became clear"?

While similar, "it became plain" often implies a more subtle or gradual realization than "it became clear". "It became clear" suggests a more immediate understanding. You can use alternatives like "it was obvious" or "it became apparent" depending on the context.

Which is more formal, "it became plain" or "it was obvious"?

"It became plain" tends to be slightly more formal than "it was obvious". In very formal writing, you might also consider "it was evident".

What can I say instead of "it became plain"?

You can use alternatives like "it was clear", ""it was obvious"", or ""it became apparent"" depending on the context. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.