What is plain English?
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Plain English is a flexible and efficient writing style that readers can understand in one reading. It combines clear, concise expression, an effective structure and good document design. The term 'plain English' was coined by Sir Ernest Arthur Gowers, who in the 1940s was asked by the British Treasury to write a guide on avoiding pompous and over-elaborate writing. A working knowledge of plain English is a must for people who write as part of their everyday work. Clients and customers expect that organisations will communicate with them clearly, fairly and ethically. |
Fancy pants job titles |
Everyday word | |
| knowledge navigator | teacher | ||
| vision clearance engineer | window cleaner | ||
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garbologist |
garbage collector | ||
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destination counsellor |
travel agent | ||
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revenue protection officer |
ticket inspector |
Plain English, also known as plain language or plain writing, is compulsory for government and public documents in countries like the UK, South Africa and the US. The US Plain Writing Act of 2010 requires federal agencies:
to enhance citizen access to Government information and services by establishing plain language as the standard style for Government documents issued to the public.
Plain English Foundation is working to pave the way for a similar law in Australia.
Plain English delivers:
- client satisfaction
- legal accuracy
- increased efficiency
- improved service
- an answer to a growing mandate in legislation for clear, transparent language.