plain sailing

noun

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

The victory was not all plain sailing, however.

From BBC

It has not been plain sailing since their Euros success, with disappointment in the Women's Nations League and missing out on Olympic qualification.

From BBC

The cruisers are hoping it will be plain sailing from here on in and they can finally start to enjoy their round-the-world trip which will see them sailing international waters for the next three years.

From BBC

Eagles boss Oliver Glasner made a huge impact when he came in last season but, so far, this campaign has not been plain sailing for him.

From BBC

But the Belarusian regained her composure to break first in the second and it was plain sailing from there.

From BBC