Plain Sailing
Definition:
An idiom meaning something that is simple and straightforward, without any difficulties or obstacles.
Origin:
The phrase comes from the world of sailing, where “plain sailing” referred to the straightforward navigation across clear seas with no obstructions.
Synonyms:
- Smooth sailing
- Easy-peasy
- A walk in the park
- Like taking candy from a baby
Antonyms:
- Rocky road
- Rough waters
- Uphill battle
- Hard nuts to crack
Usage in a sentence:
“Despite the initial hiccups, planning the surprise party was plain sailing once we had everyone on board.”
Humor-filled Quotes:
- “If only life was all plain sailing, we’d probably miss the chance to become better captains.” - Captain Punny McHumor
- “Plain sailing? More like plain failing — where’s the sense of adventure?” - Anita Prometheus
Proverbs and Related Expressions:
- Weather the storm: To come through a difficult situation successfully.
- All hands on deck: Everyone must help in solving a problem or completing a task.
- Full steam ahead: Proceed with full energy and determination.
References in Literature, Media, and Pop Culture:
- Literature: Herman Melville’s “Moby Dick” highlighted the complexity of sailing with an unpredictable sea, providing a contrast to “plain sailing.”
- Books: “The Old Man and the Sea” by Ernest Hemingway touches both plain sailing and rough waters in a vivid, metaphorical sense.
- Songs: “Sailing” by Rod Stewart, a romantic depiction of the smooth, serene nature of sailing.
- Movies: “Pirates of the Caribbean” series; even pirates had moments of plain sailing!
Inspirational Thought:
“Life’s more than just plain sailing; it’s about learning to navigate the storms and still finding beauty in the journey.”
### Which of these phrases is a synonym for "plain sailing"?
- [ ] Running in circles
- [ ] Jumping through hoops
- [x] Smooth sailing
- [ ] Climbing walls
> **Explanation:** "Smooth sailing" is another way to say something is simple and without problems. The others imply difficulty or complexity.
### If an event is characterized as "plain sailing," what does it usually imply?
- [ ] It was cancelled
- [ ] It went smoothly without any issues
- [ ] It was chaotic
- [ ] It faced numerous hardships
> **Explanation:** An event described as "plain sailing" suggests it went smoothly, without encountering any issues or obstacles.
### True or False: 'Plain sailing' can imply having an easy time.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** 'Plain sailing' indeed implies that things are going smoothly and without difficulty.
### Which book's theme could metaphorically reflect "plain sailing"?
- [ ] "Moby Dick" by Herman Melville
- [x] "Sailing Alone Around the World" by Joshua Slocum
- [ ] "Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea" by Jules Verne
- [ ] "The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger
> **Explanation:** "Sailing Alone Around the World" is more aligned with the serenity and straightforwardness suggested by "plain sailing," compared to the intense and turbulent nature of "Moby Dick."
