Plane or Plain - Common Grammar Mistake

'Plane' and 'plain' are commonly confused words in English grammar. Understanding the difference between 'plane' and 'plain' is important to use them correctly in written and spoken English.

'Plane' is a noun that refers to a flat or level surface, or a type of aircraft that flies in the air. It can also be used as a verb to describe the act of smoothing or leveling something.

'Plain' can be used as an adjective or a noun. As an adjective, it means simple, ordinary, or lacking decoration. As a noun, it refers to a large area of flat land.

Let's take a closer look at the meanings and usage of 'plane' and 'plain'.

'Plane''Plain'
The word 'plane' is a noun that refers to a flat surface or a type of aircraft.The word 'plain' can be used as an adjective to describe something simple or ordinary, or as a noun to refer to a large area of flat land.
  • The carpenter used a plane to smooth the surface of the wood.
  • We boarded the plane to fly to our destination.
  • She prefers plain clothes without any patterns or designs.
  • The prairie is a vast plain stretching as far as the eye can see.

To remember the difference between 'plane' and 'plain', it can be helpful to think of the 'e' in 'plane' standing for 'elevation' or 'equipment' (referring to the aircraft), while 'plain' has an 'ai' which can remind you of 'simple' or 'ordinary'.

Here are some examples of correct usage:

  • I need to use a plane to smooth out this rough piece of wood.
  • We booked our tickets and boarded the plane for our vacation.
  • She prefers plain clothes without any flashy designs.
  • The vast plain stretched out before us, with no hills or mountains in sight.

Remembering the correct usage of 'plane' and 'plain' will improve your grammar and communication skills.