the plain answer is yes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the plain answer is yes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when providing a straightforward and unambiguous response to a question or inquiry. Example: "After considering all the factors, the plain answer is yes; we will proceed with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The short answer is yes.

The New York Times

The conventional answer is yes.

The Economist

The simple answer is yes.

The New Yorker

The right answer is yes.

The New York Times

The real answer is yes.

The New York Times - Travel

The quick answer is yes.

The New York Times

"The unanimous answer is yes".

The New York Times

The honest answer is, yes.

The New York Times - Sports

The obvious answer is yes.

BBC

The first answer is yes.

Science Magazine

Answer: The short answer is yes.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the plain answer is yes" when you want to give a direct and unambiguous affirmative response, leaving no room for misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "the plain answer is yes" in every situation. Sometimes, a simple "yes" or a more elaborate explanation can be more appropriate and less repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The primary function of "the plain answer is yes" is to provide a direct and affirmative response to a question. It serves to immediately confirm or agree with a statement or inquiry. While there are no direct examples from Ludwig to refer to, the similar examples provided confirm this usage.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the plain answer is yes" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase used to give a direct and unambiguous affirmative response. While Ludwig AI does not provide any direct examples of this phrase, it identifies the phrase as correct and suggests that it is best used when clarity is paramount. Alternatives like "the simple answer is yes" or "absolutely" can provide similar clarity, with the primary consideration being the tone and context of the conversation. As this is the case, it's useful to consider whether this expression suits the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

The simple answer is yes

Focuses on the straightforward nature of the answer.

The clear answer is yes

Emphasizes the lack of ambiguity in the response.

The direct answer is yes

Highlights the forthrightness of the affirmation.

The short answer is yes

Indicates a concise and affirmative response, potentially with more details available.

Absolutely yes

Expresses strong agreement and confirmation.

Indeed yes

Confirms the statement with a touch of formality.

Precisely yes

Indicates exact agreement with the statement.

Undoubtedly yes

Conveys a sense of certainty and conviction.

Without a doubt yes

Reinforces the certainty of the affirmative response.

Yes, that's correct

Affirms the preceding statement with added confirmation.

FAQs

How can I use "the plain answer is yes" in a sentence?

You can use "the plain answer is yes" when responding directly to a question requiring a straightforward affirmative. For example: "Is this the correct approach? The plain answer is yes."

What's a less formal alternative to "the plain answer is yes"?

For less formal situations, you could use a simple "yes", or alternatives like "absolutely", or "yep".

Is it ever incorrect to use "the plain answer is yes"?

While grammatically correct, "the plain answer is yes" might be inappropriate in situations requiring nuance or a more detailed explanation. Overusing it can also sound repetitive.

Which is more suitable, "the simple answer is yes" or "the plain answer is yes"?

Both phrases are similar, but "the simple answer is yes" might suggest the topic is easy to understand, while "the plain answer is yes" focuses on the directness and clarity of the affirmative.