Translation guide
How to express 'plainly' in Japanese, covering clear speech, simple appearance, and frankness.
Expressing that something is said in a clear, easy-to-understand, or direct way.
Adverb meaning 'clearly', 'plainly', 'distinctly'. Used for speech, visibility, or understanding.
Please say it plainly.
His voice could be heard plainly.
Adverb meaning 'frankly', 'plainly', 'candidly'. Emphasizes honesty and directness without sugarcoating.
Adverb meaning 'plainly', 'openly', 'undisguisedly'. Often used for negative things like criticism or hostility.
He plainly showed his dissatisfaction.
Describing something that is plain, simple, without decoration.
Adverb meaning 'plainly', 'simply', 'frugally'. Used for lifestyle, clothing, or design.
She always lives plainly.
It was a plainly decorated room.
Adverb meaning 'plainly', 'soberly', 'quietly'. Often used for colors, clothes, or makeup.
I put on makeup plainly today.
Adverb meaning 'simply', 'plainly', without frills. Often used for ceremonies or designs.
The ceremony was held plainly.
Expressing that something is evident or clear.
はっきり focuses on clarity of expression, while 率直に emphasizes frankness and honesty, even if it might be blunt.
To put it plainly, that color doesn't suit you.
Frankly speaking, your attitude is rude.
The English word 'plainly' covers many nuances. Avoid directly translating it as a single Japanese word; choose based on context (clarity, simplicity, frankness, obviousness).
To put it plainly, the plan is a failure.