plainly
word
/ˈpɫeɪnɫi/
/plˈeɪnli/
Definition
In a clear and simple way, without hiding anything; also, in a way that is easy to understand.
Usage & Nuances
Often used for emphasizing honesty or directness: "He spoke plainly". Slightly formal or neutral. Common with 'say', 'state', or 'visible'. Not used for physical objects ('plain dress' = simple, not 'plainly dress').
Spanish: claramente - sencillamentePortuguese (BR): claramente - simplesmentePortuguese (PT): claramente - simplesmenteChinese (Simplified): 明显地 - 简单地Chinese (Traditional): 明顯地 - 簡單地Hindi: साफ़ तौर पर - स्पष्ट रूप सेArabic: بوضوح - ببساطةBengali: স্পষ্টভাবে - সরলভাবেRussian: ясно - откровенноJapanese: はっきりと - 明確にVietnamese: một cách rõ ràng - một cách đơn giảnKorean: 분명하게 - 솔직하게Turkish: açıkça - sade bir şekildeUrdu: صاف طور پر - سادہ انداز میںIndonesian: dengan jelas - secara sederhana
Example Sentences
She explained the rules plainly to everyone.
basic
The answer was plainly wrong.
basic
He spoke plainly so that the kids could understand.
basic
It's plainly obvious she likes you.
natural
She was plainly nervous before the test.
natural
Let me say this plainly: We need to change our plans.
natural