one thing is plain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "one thing is plain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a particular fact or conclusion is clear or obvious. Example: "After reviewing the evidence, one thing is plain: we need to change our strategy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

One thing is plain.

The New York Times

One thing is plain to see, even for the layman; the terroir of Tavel is unique.

The New York Times - Travel

With roughly 54percentt of the world's population living in urban areas today, and 66percentt of people expected to live in cities by 2050, one thing is plain; these relationships aren't no longer just nice to have.

TechCrunch

Despite the complexities, one thing is plain: whatever the Fund's political bosses end up deciding, the IMF as an institution can expect to be bitterly criticised.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

One thing was plain after this anti-climactic comedown from Wednesday's 6-0 Champions League win against Ludogorets.

The Guardian - Sport

And one thing is certain: White Plains, which has far less housing in its downtown area, is cheaper.

The New York Times

With this said, one thing is clear.

Journal of Cheminformatics

One thing is that patients behave strangely.

BMC Medical Ethics

One thing has been plain during his time in charge of Italy – he wants his voice to be heard the loudest.

The Guardian - Sport

One thing about them is plain, though: they are huge.

The Economist

One answer is plain.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "one thing is plain" to introduce a straightforward, easily understood conclusion or observation following a complex or detailed explanation.

Common error

Avoid using "one thing is plain" in very casual or informal settings. Simpler phrases like "it's clear" or "it's obvious" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "one thing is plain" functions as an introductory phrase, signaling that the speaker or writer is about to present a clear, easily understood conclusion or observation. According to Ludwig AI, it commonly precedes a key point or summary statement.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "one thing is plain" is used to introduce a clear and obvious point, functioning as an introductory phrase that emphasizes certainty. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and most commonly found in neutral and formal contexts like news and media, as well as scientific writing. While effective in conveying clarity, it's important to consider the register and avoid overuse in informal settings, where simpler phrases might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's quite clear

Emphasizes the obviousness of something with a slightly more informal tone.

it's abundantly clear

Stresses the clarity of a situation or fact, making it undeniably obvious.

it is evident

States that something is easily seen or understood, often used in a more formal context.

it is obvious

Indicates that something is easily perceived or understood, similar to "plain" but more direct.

it's crystal clear

Highlights the lucidity and lack of ambiguity of a situation or fact.

it's patently obvious

Uses "patently" to emphasize the obviousness, often implying it should be clear to everyone.

it's readily apparent

Indicates that something is easily noticed or understood, suggesting a quick and easy comprehension.

the writing is on the wall

Suggests an impending outcome is clear from current signs or events, often with a negative connotation.

it's as clear as day

Emphasizes the obviousness of something by comparing it to the clarity of daylight, more informal.

the die is cast

Implies that a decision has been made and its consequences are unavoidable, shifting focus to the finality of the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "one thing is plain" in a sentence?

Use "one thing is plain" to introduce a statement that is easily understood or obvious after some consideration. For example: "After reviewing the data, "one thing is plain": we need to adjust our marketing strategy."

What phrases are similar to "one thing is plain"?

Similar phrases include "it is obvious", "it is clear", or "it is evident". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired tone.

Is it better to say "one thing is plain" or "one thing is clear"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "One thing is clear" might be slightly more common in contemporary usage, while ""one thing is plain"" can add a touch of formality.

Can "one thing is plain" be used in informal conversations?

While grammatically correct, ""one thing is plain"" leans towards formal or neutral registers. In informal conversations, simpler alternatives like "it's obvious" or "it's clear" might be more suitable.