plain sailing

noun

1. Navigation.,  sailing on waters that are free of hazards or obstructions.

2. 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

1. informal,  smooth or easy progress

2. nautical sailing in a body of water that is unobstructed; clear sailing Compare plane sailing

Word History and Origins

Origin of plain sailing¹

First recorded in 1800–10

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.

Example Sentences

However, it was not plain sailing for Slot and his side as they met the eventual winners PSG in the opening knockout game.

From BBC

Making the switch from YouTube isn't always plain sailing, though, as shown by Mr Beast's 2024 Amazon Prime show Beast Games.

From BBC

The group stage had been plain sailing for City, winning all three games, but they fell at the first knockout hurdle following a haphazard defensive display.

From BBC

However, the trip has not been plain sailing, as they left Colombia for Thailand after witnessing a young girl being held up at gunpoint.

From BBC

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

From BBC