Keep it simple: the power of
plain language

In a world flooded with information, clarity cuts through the noise. Whether you’re drafting a contract, building a website, or explaining a public service, people need to grasp your meaning the first time they read it. That’s the essence of plain language ─ and it’s more relevant now than ever.

At SwissGlobal, we help you communicate clearly across languages and cultures. Making content more accessible is central to that mission.

What is plain language?

Plain language is writing that people can quickly absorb and act on. It’s not about oversimplifying ─ it’s about respecting your reader’s time, attention, and ability to engage.

In German, two concepts relate closely to this idea: Leichte Sprache (easy-to-read language) and Einfache Sprache (simple language). Though they sound similar, they serve distinct purposes:

• Leichte Sprache is highly standardised and designed for people with cognitive disabilities or very limited literacy. It uses short sentences, familiar words, and often images. The intended audience typically tests texts before publication.
• Einfache Sprache is more flexible. It avoids jargon and complex grammar while still sounding natural. It’s ideal for second-language speakers and anyone who may struggle with more advanced texts.

The English term “plain language” aligns most closely with Einfache Sprache ─ an approach that promotes clarity while maintaining nuance.

Examples of plain language

Here are a few real examples showing how complex, technical language can be rewritten in plainer, easier-to-understand language:

1. Legal text: The Vendor shall indemnify and hold harmless the Client from any and all claims, liabilities, losses, or expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) arising out of or in connection with the performance of this Agreement.
   Plain language: The Vendor will protect the Client from any claims, losses, or costs (including legal fees) that result from this Agreement.
   
2. Medical text: The patient should ambulate postoperatively to prevent thromboembolism.
   Plain language: You should walk around after your operation to prevent blood clots.
   
3. Financial text: Past performance is not indicative of future results and should not be construed as a guarantee of future returns on investment.
   Plain language: Just because an investment did well in the past doesn’t mean it will do well in the future.

Switzerland’s commitment to accessible language

Switzerland takes accessibility seriously. The Kompetenzzentrum Leichte Sprache (KLS), or Easy-to-Read Language Competence Centre, is a government initiative dedicated to producing content for people with limited reading skills, especially those with intellectual disabilities.

The KLS simplifies texts by removing unnecessary detail, explaining complex words, and using examples to clarify abstract ideas. Visual design also plays a key role ─ structure and layout are just as important as the text itself.

Based within the Federal Department of Home Affairs, the KLS supports the entire federal administration in producing texts in easy-to-read language. It also connects professionals working in this space, offers consultation, and promotes equal access to information.

Plain language isn’t just a communications tactic: it’s a matter of equality and inclusion.

Why does plain language matter?

When companies, governments, and institutions speak plainly, they make essential information accessible to more people. That has real-world benefits:

• Inclusion: Everyone, regardless of reading level, language proficiency, age or disability, can participate.
• Accuracy: Readers are less likely to misinterpret what’s required.
• Trust: People are more likely to believe and follow messages they can actually understand.
• Efficiency: Fewer questions, fewer mistakes, and smoother processes.

Plain language and translation

Writing clearly in one language is only the first step. When your message crosses borders, it has to be adapted, not just translated.

Our linguists do more than translate. They localise content to match the expectations, tone, and reading level of your target audience. In some cases, we recommend simplifying the original version before translating it. For complex or sensitive material, we may create two versions: one formal, one adapted into plain language.

The result? Communication that works across cultures and lands with the people it’s meant for.

How AI supports plain language

AI-driven tools can be powerful allies in simplifying content. They can streamline editing and review processes, making workflows faster and more responsive without sacrificing human insight.

AI can:

• Highlight overly long or complex sentences
• Flag jargon or vague terms
• Recommend simpler alternatives
• Check for consistency in tone and structure
• Summarise lengthy content in plain language

But AI can’t replace context, nuance, or emotional tone. That’s where our translators come in. They fine-tune every message so it’s not just correct, but engaging and culturally appropriate.

Plain language requires more than mechanical rewriting ─ it needs human understanding.

Make clarity your competitive edge

Whether you’re updating your website, rewriting legal content, or expanding internationally, clarity will help you connect, build trust, and avoid costly misunderstandings. SwissGlobal supports clients with plain language consulting and translation that prioritises accessibility. With expert translators, AI-assisted workflows, and cultural expertise, we help you communicate with confidence, no matter the audience. Because when your message is clear, people don’t just understand it. They act on it.