plain sailing

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Trading oil at present is no plain sailing because transiting a tanker through the Strait of Hormuz is no plain sailing, either.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 9, 2026

Hans' journey was not plain sailing and almost came to an end in the infamously steep Berriedale Braes in Caithness.

From BBC • Mar. 10, 2026

It has not all been plain sailing, of course, since Howe's appointment or the takeover a few weeks prior.

From BBC • Oct. 5, 2025

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 • Jul. 1, 2025

It is plain sailing for the judges this time.

From The International Monthly, Volume 4, No. 1, August, 1851 by Various