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

Not all of Alcaraz's career has been plain sailing.

From BBC • Feb. 1, 2026

It was never going to be plain sailing.

From BBC • Nov. 25, 2025

Here is no plain sailing; the skipper must be sure of the way—or choose it gingerly: else the hidden rock will inevitably “pick him up.”

From Dr. Grenfell's Parish The Deep Sea Fisherman by Duncan, Norman