just plain crazy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "just plain crazy" is correct and can be used in written English.
It typically conveys that something is extremely absurd, irrational, or unbelievable. Example: "John's idea to jump off the roof without a parachute was just plain crazy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

This is defamation, just plain crazy.

The New Yorker

I started to get overwrought and just plain crazy.

The New York Times - Magazine

Even Jama seems to realize that his story may be unconvincing, perhaps just plain crazy.

The New York Times - Books

Anybody who thinks the Irish can be taught elocution is just plain crazy.

The New Yorker

Locals accused them of being illegal treasure hunters, animal poachers or just plain crazy, but never hikers.

Independent

Then, of course, there's Tony Allen to contribute his crazy good defense and his just plain crazy Twitter account.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Just plain sick!

Huffington Post

But there's one thing that Republicans -- conservative or just-plain-crazy conservative -- love more than Ted Cruz, and that's winning.

Los Angeles Times

This just all just sounded plain crazy to me.

Huffington Post

For years I have been searching, seeking, asking, everyone, anyone... feeling so desperate, scared, alone and at times just plain old crazy.

Huffington Post

My decision to start a family as a single gay man probably fell somewhere between the "ignorance is bliss" theory of life and just plain ol' crazy.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "just plain crazy", be mindful of your audience and the context. While generally acceptable, it can be perceived as dismissive or overly critical in formal environments.

Common error

Avoid using "just plain crazy" in formal writing or professional communications. Opt for more measured and objective language to maintain credibility and avoid alienating your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "just plain crazy" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It serves to express a strong opinion that something is extremely foolish, illogical, or irrational, as evidenced by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "just plain crazy" is a commonly used phrase to express that something is utterly absurd or irrational. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for informal contexts. While versatile, it's best to avoid it in formal settings, opting for alternatives like "utterly irrational" or "completely absurd". Remember to gauge your audience and the context to decide if using "just plain crazy" is suitable or if a more formal expression is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

plain ridiculous

Emphasizes the simplicity and obviousness of the absurdity.

utterly insane

Focuses on the intensity of the craziness, implying a complete lack of reason.

completely absurd

Emphasizes the ridiculousness and lack of sense in a situation or idea.

absolutely ludicrous

Highlights the laughable and foolish nature of something.

totally irrational

Stresses the absence of logical thought or reasoning.

downright foolish

Implies a lack of good judgment and common sense.

simply preposterous

Suggests that something is so outrageous as to be unbelievable.

outright nonsensical

Focuses on the lack of meaning or coherence.

certifiably mad

Implies a level of craziness that might warrant a professional diagnosis.

beyond belief

Indicates that something is so extreme that it is hard to accept as true.

FAQs

How can I use "just plain crazy" in a sentence?

You can use "just plain crazy" to describe something you find completely illogical or absurd. For example, "His plan to swim across the Atlantic Ocean is "just plain crazy"".

What's a less informal way to say "just plain crazy"?

If you're looking for a less informal alternative, consider phrases like "completely irrational", "utterly absurd", or "entirely illogical". These options are more suitable for professional or academic contexts.

What is the difference between "just plain crazy" and "crazy like a fox"?

"Just plain crazy" describes behavior that seems nonsensical or irrational. "Crazy like a fox", on the other hand, describes behavior that appears crazy but is actually clever or strategic.

Are there any synonyms for "just plain crazy" that emphasize disbelief?

Yes, you could use phrases like "beyond belief", "unfathomable", or "inconceivable" to emphasize the sense of disbelief associated with something you find "just plain crazy".