make it plain

USAGE SUMMARY

"make it plain" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to explain that you want something to be explained or understood in a clear, straightforward way. For example, "I need you to make it plain how I can access this feature."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Auston said that when it comes to Muslims Make It Plain, both the group's message and its name draw on the legacy of Malcolm X. "Make it plain" is a phrase commonly associated with the historic figure, Ali explained, and it speaks to the values of clear communication and accessibility that informed the Muslim activist's work.

Huffington Post

However, recent developments make it plain that the planning commission is unlikely to carry out its stated commitments to the universalization of health care.

The New York Times

(Make it plain!) But it feeds a repressed ego.

The New Yorker

(Make it plain!) It's nothing but the drum major instinct.

The New Yorker

And Daddy King, as we called him, would say: 'Make it plain, son, make it plain,'" Lewis recounted.

The Guardian - Books

Letters make it plain that Stevenson spent at least six weeks on the revision.

The Guardian - Books

Let me make it plain that my school is a bright, welcoming and inspiring place.

The Guardian

Make it plain from the very beginning that all living is relationships".

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Mr. Seglem made it plain that the commission had already reached most of its conclusions.

The New York Times

DURING his successful re-election campaign, Chancellor Gerhard Schröder made it plain.

The Economist

It just makes it plain how much damage he caused".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "make it plain", ensure your audience benefits from directness. Use it when avoiding ambiguity is crucial.

Common error

While effective, "make it plain" can become repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "clarify" or "elucidate" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make it plain" functions primarily as a directive or request, urging someone to express something clearly and without ambiguity. Ludwig examples show its use in various contexts, emphasizing the need for straightforward communication.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make it plain" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to request or emphasize the need for clarity. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media, though it can also be used in more informal settings. While effective, varying your language by using synonyms like "clarify" or "elucidate" can enhance your writing. Using "make it plain" helps ensure your message is direct and easily understood, leaving no room for ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make it clear

Slightly more formal and emphasizes clarity.

clarify

A single word alternative focusing on the act of making something understandable.

make it understandable

Focuses on the outcome of being easily understood.

put it simply

Highlights the simplicity of the explanation.

spell it out

More informal, suggesting a very detailed explanation.

express it directly

Focuses on the directness and lack of ambiguity in the expression.

state it explicitly

Emphasizes the explicitness and lack of implication.

elucidate

A more formal and academic term for clarifying.

lay it out

Informal, suggesting a structured and detailed explanation.

get the message across

Emphasizes the successful transmission of a message.

FAQs

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

You can use "make it plain" to emphasize the need for clarity and directness in your communication. For example, "I need you to "make it plain" how this new policy will affect our team."

What are some alternatives to "make it plain"?

Alternatives include "make it clear", "spell it out", or "clarify". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "make it plain" suitable for formal writing?

While "make it plain" is widely accepted, it is generally more appropriate for informal or neutral contexts. For formal writing, consider using alternatives such as "elucidate" or "state it explicitly".

What does it mean to "make it plain"?

To "make it plain" means to express something in a clear, direct, and easily understandable manner, leaving no room for confusion or misinterpretation. Essentially, it's about ensuring your message is straightforward and accessible.