plain expression

USAGE SUMMARY

"plain expression" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to refer to a straightforward or direct way of speaking or writing that is not overly elaborate or flowery. For example, "His plain expression of his feelings touched me deeply."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Your boy is seventy-one" — as might be expected, the words are hardly eloquent, not remotely a prayer, the plain expression of a common (if astounding) fact.

The New Yorker

The phrase "acts and conduct of the accused" in Rule 92bis is a plain expression and should be given its ordinary meaning: deeds and behaviour of the accused.

Journal of International Humanitarian Action

Of the 790 adverse events included in the CTCAE, 78 symptoms were identified as amenable to patient self-reporting, and the technical language was changed into plain expression [14].

Journal of Patient-Reported Outcomes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

To this aim, a straightforward treatment of the problem is presented which can be employed to give clear reason for several experimental findings by means of plain expressions and with a clear physical meaning.

Thin-Walled Structures

To achieve this, you must eradicate several surplus content, clutter and jargon and jot down in minimal, plain expressions that everybody comprehends.

WikiHow

In this article, under the Boussinesq assumption and through analyzing the characteristics of velocity distribution in the interacting region between the main channel and its associated flood plain, the expression of momentum transfer coefficient was theoretically derived.

Journal of Hydrodynamics, Ser. B

This area is almost plain topographic expression with gentle slope towards south.

Applied Water Science

One result comes clear in the views of a street vendor and the rancorous, edgy or just plain exhausted expressions of others across the capital.

The New York Times

This incorrect assumption has hampered our ability to understand deep-time relationships between mountain and Plains cultural expressions.

Quaternary International

These principally consisted in simplifying procedure, but language was also altered, so that plaintiffs became claimants and the use of old, often Latin, terms and phrases was abandoned in favour of plainer English expressions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The selection of works presented was refreshingly unpretentious, focusing not on controversial installations or the latest minimalist scribbles, but on expression, plain and simple.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, prioritize using "plain expression" to ensure your message is easily understood by your audience, avoiding jargon or overly complex language.

Common error

Avoid substituting "plain expression" with overly simplistic or informal terms that may diminish the credibility or seriousness of your message. Maintaining clarity doesn't mean sacrificing professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "plain expression" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object or complement of a verb. Ludwig AI confirms its use in conveying clarity and directness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "plain expression" is a grammatically correct noun phrase that refers to a straightforward and uncomplicated way of communicating. Although its occurrence is rare, Ludwig AI's analysis of various sources indicates its presence in news, scientific, and wiki contexts. To ensure effective communication, prioritize "plain expression" when clarity is paramount, but avoid sacrificing professionalism by using overly simplistic language. Alternative phrases include "simple articulation" and "clear formulation".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

simple articulation

Focuses on the clarity and ease of expressing something.

clear formulation

Highlights the clarity and structure of the expression.

direct statement

Emphasizes the straightforwardness and lack of ambiguity.

straightforward wording

Highlights the simplicity and lack of complication in the choice of words.

uncomplicated phraseology

Implies a style free from complex or ornate language.

lucid explanation

Emphasizes the ease with which something is understood.

concise communication

Focuses on brevity and clarity in delivering a message.

explicit declaration

Highlights the openness and unambiguity of the expression.

unvarnished language

Conveys a sense of honesty and lack of embellishment.

accessible terminology

Focuses on the ease with which the expression can be understood by a general audience.

FAQs

What does "plain expression" mean?

A "plain expression" refers to a straightforward, clear, and uncomplicated way of communicating ideas or feelings. It emphasizes simplicity and directness in language.

When is it appropriate to use a "plain expression"?

It's appropriate when you need to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity, especially when communicating with a diverse audience or explaining complex topics. Using a "plain expression" makes the message easily accessible.

What can I say instead of "plain expression"?

Alternatives include "simple articulation", "clear formulation", or "direct statement", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How does "plain expression" differ from "eloquent expression"?

"Plain expression" prioritizes clarity and simplicity, while "eloquent expression" focuses on using sophisticated language and stylistic flair. The choice depends on the context and the desired impact on the audience.