it becomes plain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it becomes plain" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that something is becoming clear or obvious. Example: "After reviewing the evidence, it becomes plain that the defendant was not at the scene of the crime."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 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

Commercial cases are often abandoned when it becomes plain that the side in the wrong will find endless ways of never paying up.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 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

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

The New Yorker

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

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it becomes plain" when you want to emphasize a growing understanding or realization that something is evident, especially after some consideration or observation.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "it becomes plain" can sound overly formal in casual conversations or informal writing. Consider using simpler alternatives like "it's clear" or "it's obvious" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it becomes plain" functions as a clause introducer, signaling a shift in understanding or awareness. Ludwig's examples show it frequently precedes an explanation or conclusion drawn from previous information. The grammatical function is to indicate the arrival of a clear understanding.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it becomes plain" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to indicate a growing understanding or realization. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage spans across various authoritative sources, particularly in News & Media and encyclopedic contexts. While its formality level is considered neutral to formal, it's essential to choose simpler alternatives for casual communication. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, writers can effectively employ "it becomes plain" to convey clarity and emphasize insights in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it becomes clear

Indicates a slightly more direct and common way of expressing the same idea.

it becomes obvious

Suggests the information is very easily perceived or understood, implying less subtlety.

it is evident

More formal and emphasizes the readily apparent nature of something.

it is apparent

Similar to "it is evident" but can also imply something is outwardly presented.

it is manifest

A very formal and somewhat archaic way to say something is obvious.

it dawns on

Implies a gradual realization rather than an immediate understanding.

it is realized

Focuses on the act of understanding or recognition.

it is understood

Implies a general agreement or acceptance of something.

it transpires

Suggests the information is revealed over time or through events.

the penny drops

An informal idiom indicating a sudden moment of understanding.

FAQs

What does "it becomes plain" mean?

The phrase "it becomes plain" means that something is becoming clear or obvious, often after a period of uncertainty or confusion. It suggests a gradual understanding or realization.

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

You can use "it becomes plain" to introduce a realization or understanding. For example, "After reviewing the data, "it becomes plain" that our initial assumptions were incorrect."

What are some alternatives to "it becomes plain"?

Some alternatives to "it becomes plain" include "it becomes clear", "it becomes obvious", "it is evident", or "it is apparent". The best choice depends on the context and desired level of formality.

Is "it becomes plain" formal or informal?

"It becomes plain" is generally considered more formal than phrases like "it's clear" or "it's obvious". While appropriate in academic or professional writing, it might sound out of place in casual conversation. If you are not sure, try to replace it with "it becomes clear".