In the colorful world of idioms, the phrase “as plain as a pikestaff” stands out as a vivid way to describe something that is obvious or easily understood. If you hear someone say that something is “as plain as a pikestaff,” they are emphasizing that the matter at hand is crystal clear, almost to the point of being inescapable. In this article, we’ll dive into the meaning, origin, and usage of this charming expression, so you can use it confidently in your daily conversations.
Meaning of “(as) plain as a pikestaff”
The idiom “as plain as a pikestaff” means extremely obvious or very clear. It refers to something that is so apparent or easy to understand that it requires no further explanation. The phrase is often used to stress the simplicity or transparency of a situation, argument, or fact.
Definition of “(as) plain as a pikestaff”
- Plain: Simple, clear, easy to understand, or not decorated.
- Pikestaff: A staff or pole used in the past by pikemen (soldiers armed with pikes). The term “pikestaff” refers to something starkly visible or simple in design, contributing to the idiom’s meaning of something being obvious.
When someone says “as plain as a pikestaff”, they are highlighting how obvious the situation or point is, implying that it couldn’t be any clearer.
Examples of “(as) plain as a pikestaff” in sentences
Jill: Why does the Senator always vote for measures that would help the tobacco industry?
Jane: It’s as plain as a pikestaff—because there are a lot of tobacco growers in his district, and he wants them to vote for him.
Fred: I have a suspicion that Marcia is upset with me.
Alan: A suspicion? Come on, Fred, that’s been plain as a pikestaff for quite some time!
His lie is as plain as a pikestaff—everyone can see right through it.
The answer to the puzzle is as plain as a pikestaff, you just have to read the clue properly.
Origin of “(as) plain as a pikestaff”
The expression “as plain as a pikestaff” is believed to have originated in England during the 16th century. The term “pikestaff” referred to the weapon used by pikemen, which was a long and simple pole. Because the pikestaff was such a straightforward, easily recognizable object, it came to symbolize something that was plain or obvious.
The idiom’s usage can be traced back to at least the early 1600s. Over time, it evolved to describe anything that is plainly evident or self-explanatory.
Synonyms for “(as) plain as a pikestaff”
If you want to use other expressions to convey the idea of something being obvious, here are some alternatives:
- As clear as day
- As clear as crystal
- As plain as the nose on your face
- As obvious as the sky is blue
- As simple as ABC
- As transparent as glass
How to use “(as) plain as a pikestaff”
The idiom “as plain as a pikestaff” is typically used when you want to emphasize how easy something is to understand or how clear a situation is. Here are some ways to incorporate it into your speech:
In casual conversations:
“Why didn’t you realize that? It was as plain as a pikestaff!”
“Her feelings for him were as plain as a pikestaff, yet he didn’t notice.”
In discussions or arguments:
“The solution to this problem is as plain as a pikestaff. All we need is a little more time.”
“His motivations are as plain as a pikestaff, don’t you see?”
In observations:
“The answer to the riddle was as plain as a pikestaff once you thought about it.”
“The fact that she’s upset is as plain as a pikestaff to anyone who knows her.”
Why “(as) plain as a pikestaff” is popular
The idiom “as plain as a pikestaff” remains a popular expression due to its vivid imagery and simplicity. It provides an easy, humorous way to point out when something is undeniably obvious. Because the phrase is relatively old, it adds a touch of historical flair to everyday conversations, making it both effective and charming.
Its continued use in modern English is a testament to the enduring power of idiomatic expressions to convey ideas quickly and memorably.
