Why plain English matters more than ever

Plain language shows empathy for our audiences.

Complexity is growing across every sector, from public health and government to climate policy and international development. People are navigating crowded inboxes, fast-moving headlines, and information overload. What they don’t have time for is vague, wordy, or technical writing.

Plain English isn’t about oversimplifying. It’s about being clear, direct and respectful — and it’s one of the most powerful ways to earn trust, improve access, and make your message matter.

It’s not about dumbing down

One of the biggest misconceptions about plain English is that it ‘dumbs things down.’ In fact, it often requires more discipline and clarity of thought. Plain language demands that you know what you’re trying to say — and say it in a way others can act on.

It’s about removing barriers, not ideas. Plain English makes expertise accessible without diluting it.

It improves equity — not just readability

Plain English is a tool for inclusion. It helps level the playing field across language ability, education level, and background. It ensures that information is available to the people who need it most — not just those who are fluent in formal, bureaucratic or technical language.

In community services, health, justice, and policy work, this isn’t a nice-to-have — it’s a responsibility.

It scales with complexity

Some of the most complex work being done today — in science, government, or development — needs to be communicated clearly to non-specialists, media, funders, and the public. Plain English doesn’t ignore complexity; it manages it.

It’s about clarity of structure, pacing, tone and message — not just vocabulary. When used well, it makes even the most nuanced ideas more compelling.

It’s your reputational edge

Organisations that communicate clearly are seen as more transparent, more credible, and more trustworthy. Plain English helps ensure your key messages aren’t just seen — they’re understood, remembered, and acted on.

It’s a strategic asset in public-facing communications, stakeholder engagement, and risk management.

Make it plain. Make it work.

At Lantern Editorial, we help organisations write with clarity and credibility — using plain English to strengthen messages and sharpen impact.

If your communication needs to reach people — and make sense to them — plain English is the smartest place to start.