B2adjective1K

Plain

UK /["/pleɪn/"]/US /["/pleɪn/"]/

Definition

not decorated or complicated; simple

In simple words: Simple and without decoration.

Examples

The design was quite plain, lacking any decorative elements.
I prefer plain yogurt without any added sugars or flavors.
He wore a plain white shirt to the meeting, which looked professional.
The plain offered stunning views of the mountains in the distance.
After the storm, the plain was flooded and covered in debris.

Usage notes

Use 'plain' to describe something that is straightforward or lacks complexity. It's often used in both written and spoken contexts, suitable for everyday conversation or descriptions.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'plain' as in 'plain cheese' — simple and no extra toppings!

Collocations

be
look
seem
extremely
fairly
very
plain blue, white, etc.
be
look
seem
extremely
fairly
very
plain blue, white, etc.
be
seem
become
fairly
very
etc.
to

Synonyms

clear
everyday

Antonyms

fancy
ornate
complicated

Common mistakes

'Plain' is often confused with 'plane' in spelling.
Learners might use 'plain' to describe flavor instead of 'bland'.
Some use 'plain' incorrectly to mean 'clear' instead of simple.