What is plain English?

A communication is in plain language ‘if its wording, structure, and design are so clear that the intended readers can easily find what they need, understand what they find, and use that information.’  Source: The International Plain Language Federation.

The National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA) continues to advocate for the importance of using plain English and provides a range of plain English editing and training services.

Why use plain English?

1. It makes good business sense

Plain English saves you time and money. Clearer information is shown to reduce mistakes and complaints.

2. It’s increasingly a legal matter

Plain English gives people information they understand and enables them to make informed choices.

3. It’s fair

When you use plain English more people can understand your information.
This is important for the 1 in 5 adults in Ireland who struggle with reading and understanding information*.

*Adults aged 16-65. Source: Central Statistics Office (2024). Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC) 2023.