Goal: Show that plain language benefits all of us, especially in moments of stress, urgency, or confusion.
Plain language is sometimes seen as something only “certain people” need—like those with low literacy or a different native language. But in fact, everyone benefits from clear communication. In everyday life, we all face moments where we’re tired, distracted, stressed, or dealing with unfamiliar topics. At those times, plain language helps us make better decisions, faster.
Consider these examples:
- A parent registering their child for school while juggling work and family schedules.
- A patient trying to understand treatment options after a difficult diagnosis.
- A new employee reading workplace safety rules on their first day.
In each case, people need to understand quickly and act confidently. Complex, bureaucratic, or vague language slows them down—or leads to mistakes.
Plain language also improves trust. Research has shown that when organisations communicate clearly, people are more likely to comply with rules, follow advice, and feel respected. For public institutions, this means fewer complaints, fewer errors, and better services. For companies, it can improve customer satisfaction and reduce support costs.
Moreover, plain language supports democratic participation. People must be able to understand their rights, vote, give informed consent, and read legal or financial documents. Without this, access to justice, healthcare, and public services becomes unequal.
That’s why plain language is not about “dumbing down” or oversimplifying. It’s about removing unnecessary barriers so that more people can engage, decide, and act.
Whether you’re writing (or reading) a website, an email, a legal notice, or a contract—clarity is for everyone.