A definition of plain English

'A communication is in plain English if it meets the needs of its audience — by using language, structure, and design so clearly and effectively that the audience has the best possible chance of readily finding what they need, understanding it, and using it.'

This definition was accepted by the International Plain Language Working Group, and was found in Cheek, A. 'Defining plain language.' Clarity 64 (2010): 5 – 25.

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