B2adverblanguage
US/ˈpleɪn.li/
UK/ˈpleɪn.li/
in a clear and direct way; clearly or obviously
In context
She spoke plainly so that everyone could understand the problem.
The mistake was plainly visible from the back of the room.
He was plainly unhappy, although he said nothing.
Words that go with plainly
verb + adverb
- speak plainlyDoctors should speak plainly to patients.
- state plainlyThe report states plainly that costs will rise.
adverb + adjective
- plainly visibleThe sign was plainly visible from the road.
- plainly wrongYour answer is plainly wrong.
- plainly dressedShe was plainly dressed in a gray coat.
adverb + verb
- plainly showThe photos plainly show what happened.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
He lives plainly in the village.Correct: He lives simply in the village.