##  [Plainly said: Keep it clear!](/en/quiz/plainly-said-keep-it-clear-eng)

Have you ever read a text and wondered "Why doesn't the writer just say what they mean?" That’s where plain language comes in! When you want to communicate a specific message to your audience, it’s important to use clear, simple language.

See if you can pick out a simpler word to use in the sentences below.

Need a few tips before getting started? Check out our Writing Tips Plus article “[clear communication: use clear words and expressions](/en/writing-tips-plus/clear-communication-use-clear-words-and-expressions).”

1. In Canada, it’s **customary** to tip your server when dining out.important

unconventional

usual

2. The company will **terminate** his contract.downsize

end

lay off

3. It’s important to **economize** now for a future down payment on a house.pay

save

spend

4. The editor found an **egregious** error in the manuscript.glaring

small

outstanding

5. Five countries will **accede to** the proposal.agree to

appoint to

disagree with

6. The CRTC will increase its operating budget to cover the **aforementioned** expenses.above

included

attached

7. Arlene **chided** Ernie for taking a long time to finish his homework.praised

scolded

comforted

8. They were able to **consolidate** the information from the files.spread out

separate

put together

9. Tom **subsequently** held a number of positions in the federal government.before

later

currently

10. The office is using online courses to **facilitate** employee training. help with

delay

save on