plainly

Plainly is an adverb derived from the adjective plain, meaning clear, simple, or evident. In modern English, plainly describes the manner in which something is done or the quality of what is described. It can modify verbs (spoke plainly), adjectives (plainly evident), or entire clauses (Plainly, this plan will fail). It is often used interchangeably with clearly or evidently, but it can carry a stronger sense of directness or blunt clarity.

Etymology and form: Plainly is formed from the adjective plain plus the suffix -ly. The base sense of plain includes meanings such as simple, obvious, or easy to understand, a usage that developed in Middle English from earlier Germanic and Latin influences. The adverbial form has been part of English for centuries and remains common in both spoken and written language.

Usage and nuance: Plainly often signals that the speaker or writer believes a statement to be self-evident or unambiguous. It can convey a straightforward, unembellished tone, and in some contexts may appear more forceful or blunt than synonyms like clearly. In formal writing, plain language and plainly worded sentences are valued, whereas in more literary styles, speakers might prefer subtler phrases.

Related forms and phrases: Plainly can be paired with nouns to describe visibility or clarity (plainly visible, plainly wrong). The noun form plainness denotes the quality of being plain or straightforward. Distinct meanings of plain as a noun (a flat landform) or as an adjective in other senses are unrelated to the adverb plainly.

See also: plain, clearly, evidently, manifestly.