B2 Level – Upper Intermediate
Reading Time – 2 minutes
Introduction: When Everything Goes Smoothly
Have you ever worked on a project or experienced a day where everything just fell into place? That’s what we call “plain sailing.”
This expression is used to describe situations that are easy, straightforward, or free of complications.
Let’s explore the meaning, origins, and examples of “plain sailing” so you can use it in English conversations with confidence.
By the end, you’ll know how to talk about those times when life feels easy and stress-free!
What Does “Plain Sailing” Mean?
“Plain sailing” refers to situations that are smooth, trouble-free, and easy to manage. When something is described as plain sailing, it means there are no major challenges or obstacles.
You can use this phrase to talk about projects, relationships, plans, or even personal achievements that went as smoothly as possible.
It’s ideal for highlighting when things go well without unexpected difficulties.
Origins of “Plain Sailing”
The expression “plain sailing” has nautical origins. In maritime terms, “plain” (or “plane”) sailing was a method used by sailors to navigate waters with minimal obstacles and calm conditions.
Over time, the term evolved to describe any situation that’s straightforward and uncomplicated.
It’s a phrase that brings to mind smooth seas and easy progress, making it a popular metaphor in English.
Examples of “Plain Sailing” in Use
Here are some examples to show how “plain sailing” can be used in different contexts:
- Everyday Conversation:
“Once we sorted out the travel arrangements, the rest of the trip was plain sailing.”
- Job Interview:
“With the right training and preparation, most tasks in my previous role were plain sailing. I believe in good planning to avoid complications.”
- IELTS Speaking Test – Part 3 (Discussion):
“People often think achieving goals is plain sailing, but in reality, it requires effort and resilience.”
- Storytelling (Casual Setting):
“After we fixed the initial issues, organizing the event was plain sailing. Everything went off without a hitch!”
- Motivational Context:
“The path to success isn’t always plain sailing, but if you keep going through the rough patches, you’ll eventually reach smoother waters.”
- Business or Work Scenario:
“Implementing the new software was plain sailing after the team completed their training. It improved our productivity with no major setbacks.”
- Formal Context (Report):
“After the initial setup, the project progressed as plain sailing, meeting all key milestones and staying within budget.”
Describe Your Plain Sailing Experiences!
Have you ever experienced a time when things were plain sailing? Share your story in the comments or try using this phrase in your conversations.
Learning to use expressions like “plain sailing” helps you describe positive, easygoing situations in English, so give it a try and add this to your vocabulary!
