Goal: Define plain language and explain how it helps people understand and use information easily.
Plain language is communication that people can easily understand the first time they read or hear it. That’s the short definition. But there’s more behind the idea—it’s about making communication usable, accessible, and action-oriented.
The International Plain Language Federation (IPLF) defines plain language like this: “A communication is in plain language if its wording, structure, and design are so clear that the intended audience can easily find what they need, understand what they find, and use that information.” This definition highlights a key idea: plain language focuses on the reader’s experience, not the writer’s style.
Plain language is not only about shorter sentences or simpler words. It also means:
- Organising information logically
- Using active voice
- Avoiding unnecessary jargon or technical terms
- Testing content with real users
The purpose of plain language is inclusion and efficiency. It ensures that readers—regardless of education, language level, or stress—can understand and act on the information they’re given. It benefits everyone: citizens, patients, clients, and also professionals who save time by avoiding follow-up questions or mistakes.
Plain language is especially important in public communication, where people must understand rights, deadlines, health advice, or administrative procedures. But it also applies to private companies, websites, contracts, and customer service.
In short: plain language is about clarity with a purpose—to inform, to empower, and to include.