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plain sailing

noun

Navigation.��sailing on waters that are free of hazards or obstructions.
an easy and unobstructed way, course, or plan.
As an heir to a large fortune, he looked forward to financial plain sailing.

plain sailing

noun

informal��smooth or easy progress
nautical sailing in a body of water that is unobstructed; clear sailing Compare plane sailing

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Word History and Origins

Origin of plain sailing¹

First recorded in 1800–10

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Idioms and Phrases

Easy going; straightforward, unobstructed progress. For example, The first few months were difficult, but I think it's plain sailing from here on. Alluding to navigating waters free of hazards, such as rocks or other obstructions, this term was transferred to other activities in the early 1800s.

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

I don't think it's going to be a plain sailing future.

From

Biggar admitted wearing the prestigious 10 shirt for Wales "hasn't always been plain sailing and easy", but it helped to make him a stronger person and player.

From

Despite the rapid rise, it hasn't all been plain sailing for the young full-back.

From

It was not all plain sailing in the first half against Scotland as a disallowed try prevented the visitors from leading at half-time.

From

But it has not been plain sailing since.

From

plain sail plain-saw

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