How Do You Spell PLAIN SAILING?

Pronunciation: [plˈe͡ɪn sˈe͡ɪlɪŋ] (IPA)

Plain sailing is an idiomatic expression which means that something is easy or straightforward. The word "sailing" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /ˈseɪ.lɪŋ/ while the word "plain" is spelled with the IPA transcription /pleɪn/. The two words are combined to create the expression "plain sailing," which is pronounced as /pleɪn ˈseɪ.lɪŋ/. The phrase is believed to have originated from the nautical world where a ship sailing on a calm and unobstructed sea is known as "plain sailing." It is now commonly used to refer to an effortless and hassle-free task.

PLAIN SAILING Meaning and Definition

  1. Plain sailing is an idiomatic expression that originated from nautical terms and is commonly used in everyday language. It refers to a situation or endeavor that is proceeding or progressing smoothly, easily, and without any major obstacles or difficulties. When something is described as "plain sailing," it means that everything is going according to plan and there are no complicated or challenging aspects to contend with.

    The phrase alludes to the concept of smooth sailing on calm waters, where there are no unpredictable waves or storms that could hinder the progress of a ship. Thus, it suggests a state of ease, calmness, and lack of friction in the course of an activity or situation.

    In various contexts, "plain sailing" can be used to depict a trouble-free journey, an effortless task, a smooth project execution, or a favorable outcome that requires minimal effort or resistance. The expression often implies that there are no unexpected twists or complications, allowing individuals to anticipate a successful and hassle-free experience.

    However, it is important to note that while "plain sailing" generally refers to a smooth and easy path, this does not necessarily imply a lack of effort or hard work. Rather, it signifies that the expected challenges and hurdles have been effectively navigated, resulting in a straightforward and unhindered progress towards a goal or objective.

Common Misspellings for PLAIN SAILING

  • olain sailing
  • llain sailing
  • -lain sailing
  • 0lain sailing
  • pkain sailing
  • ppain sailing
  • poain sailing
  • plzin sailing
  • plsin sailing
  • plwin sailing
  • plqin sailing
  • plaun sailing
  • plajn sailing
  • plakn sailing
  • plaon sailing
  • pla9n sailing
  • pla8n sailing
  • plaib sailing
  • plaim sailing

Etymology of PLAIN SAILING

The phrase "plain sailing" originates from maritime terminology. It is derived from the nautical term "plain sail", which referred to a ship sailing with all of its sails unfurled. When the wind conditions were favorable and the ship was able to make steady progress without any obstacles, it was considered to be "plain sailing". Over time, the term began to be used metaphorically to describe any situation or endeavor that is effortless, easy, or without complications.

Idioms with the word PLAIN SAILING

  • be plain sailing The idiom "be plain sailing" means that something is very easy or straightforward, without any difficulties or obstacles. It refers to a situation or task that progresses smoothly and effortlessly.
  • be smooth sailing, at be plain sailing The idiom "be smooth sailing" or "be plain sailing" means that a situation is easy, simple, and without major difficulties or obstacles. It implies that things are going smoothly, effortlessly, and without any hindrances or complications.