plainly — In a clear and obvious manner that is easily understood or seen. Without decoration, complexity, or disguise; simply and directly.
Part of speech: ADVERB
Definition: In a clear and obvious manner that is easily understood or seen. Without decoration, complexity, or disguise; simply and directly.
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈpleɪnli/
Example Sentences
- He was plainly lying - his pants were literally on fire!
- The instructions were plainly written, so even my cat could follow them.
- She plainly told him that his cooking tasted like cardboard.
plainly
ADVERB[/ˈpleɪnli/]
In a clear and obvious manner that is easily understood or seen. Without decoration, complexity, or disguise; simply and directly.
In a clear and obvious manner that is easily understood or seen. Without decoration, complexity, or disguise; simply and directly.
Think mainly, speak sanely, see it plainly!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Middle English 'plain' meaning flat or clear, which came from Latin 'planus' meaning flat or level. The adverb suffix '-ly' was added to create the meaning 'in a clear, obvious manner.'
Breakdown
plain (clear, obvious from Latin 'planus' meaning flat) + -ly (adverb suffix meaning 'in the manner of')
🎵Rhyme
📝Examples
“He was plainly lying - his pants were literally on fire!”
“The instructions were plainly written, so even my cat could follow them.”
“She plainly told him that his cooking tasted like cardboard.”
“It's plainly obvious that you didn't study for the exam.”
📚Related Words
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