plainly
UK: ˈpleɪnli | US: ˈpleɪnli
adv. in a clear or straightforward manner
adv. without embellishment or complexity
adv. obviously or evidently
The word "plainly" derives from the Middle English "pleinly," which combines "plain" (from Old French "plain," meaning "clear" or "flat," ultimately from Latin "planus") with the adverbial suffix "-ly" (from Old English "-lice," used to form adverbs). The root "plain" originally described physical flatness but evolved metaphorically to denote clarity or simplicity. The suffix "-ly" systematically converts adjectives into adverbs, preserving the core meaning while modifying grammatical function.
She spoke plainly so everyone could understand.
The instructions were written plainly on the box.
He was plainly annoyed by the interruption.
The truth was plainly visible in her expression.
The landscape stretched out plainly under the open sky.