spell out plainly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "spell out plainly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want someone to explain something clearly and without ambiguity. Example: "Please spell out plainly what the requirements are for this project so that everyone understands."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

You never need to imagine their contexts, which tend to get spelled out plainly in the titles.

The New Yorker

But the details of the color scheme were lost on them, as they are on many other Americans who wish the government would spell things out plainly instead of using semaphores more fitting for a naval exercise.

The New York Times

Apple spells it out plainly, then explains in lay terms how Apple Pay solves the problem.

Forbes

But he could do much to counter this bleak Palestinian view simply by spelling out as plainly as Bill Clinton did five years ago that although the Palestinians cannot expect a state exactly on the 1967 line, he will help them acquire both the vast bulk of the West Bank and a shared capital in Jerusalem.

The Economist

But dollar amounts aside, the real reason why Google bought Motorola is spelled out quite plainly in the filing.

TechCrunch

Only when the first firefighters found the tail of the jet, still in one piece with the letters spelling out "United" still plainly visible, did the horrifying scene become clear.

The New York Times

spell out?

The New York Times

Spell out the percentages.

The Economist

The international community should speak out plainly and act firmly.

The New York Times

The situation is laid out plainly: We want a pet.

The New Yorker

The first is easier to spell out.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone, use "spell out plainly" to ensure they understand every step without room for misinterpretation. For example: "Please "spell out plainly" what data needs to be collected and how."

Common error

While "spell out plainly" is grammatically sound, overuse in casual conversation can sound overly formal or even condescending. Consider using simpler alternatives like "explain clearly" or "be specific" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spell out plainly" functions as a directive, urging the speaker or writer to provide a clear and unambiguous explanation. Ludwig AI confirms that this usage aligns with standard English grammar.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

25%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "spell out plainly" is a grammatically correct phrase used to emphasize the need for clear and unambiguous explanations. Although relatively rare in overall usage, according to Ludwig, it finds its niche in formal contexts such as news reporting, academic writing, and professional communications. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the context, opting for simpler alternatives in casual settings. Employing "spell out plainly" effectively involves providing detailed instructions, defining responsibilities, or simplifying intricate subjects, all while mitigating potential misunderstandings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clarify explicitly

Highlights the removal of any doubt through precise explanation.

express unambiguously

Highlights the lack of potential for misinterpretation.

explain clearly

Focuses on the act of explaining without necessarily emphasizing the avoidance of ambiguity.

lay out clearly

Suggests an organized presentation of information for easy understanding.

state explicitly

Emphasizes a direct and unambiguous declaration.

articulate clearly

Focuses on the manner of expression being easy to follow and understand.

outline explicitly

Focuses on providing a clear structure and main points.

make clear

A more general term for ensuring understanding, lacking the intensity of 'plainly'.

define precisely

Emphasizes the accuracy and lack of vagueness in the definition.

detail meticulously

Stresses thoroughness in providing information, potentially exceeding the requirement for simple clarity.

FAQs

What does "spell out plainly" mean?

The phrase "spell out plainly" means to explain something clearly and without any ambiguity, ensuring that it is easily understood.

How can I use "spell out plainly" in a sentence?

You can use "spell out plainly" when you want someone to provide a very clear and detailed explanation. For example: "The contract should "spell out plainly" the responsibilities of each party."

What are some alternatives to "spell out plainly"?

Alternatives to "spell out plainly" include "explain clearly", "clarify explicitly", or "state explicitly". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to "spell out plainly" or just "explain"?

"Spell out plainly" implies a greater degree of detail and clarity than simply "explain". Use "spell out plainly" when precision and avoidance of misunderstanding are crucial.