Plains: meaning, definitions and examples

Large, flat areas of land without significant hills or mountains. Often used in a general sense and can be found in various climates.

• The Great Plains in the United States are known for their wide open spaces and agricultural use

A type of grassland, typically found in North America, characterized by tall grasses and few trees. Often associated with fertile soil and farming.

• The Midwestern United States is known for its expansive prairies that support extensive agriculture

Open areas where grasses are the dominant plant life. Often used to describe large ecological areas where trees are rare.

• Many herbivores, such as antelope, thrive in grassland regions

Refers to large, flat areas of land with few trees, often used in the context of agriculture or natural landscapes.

• The vast plains of the Midwest are ideal for growing wheat.
• Buffalo once roamed freely across the plains.

An extensive area of relatively flat highland, often surrounded by steep slopes. It is more elevated compared to plains and covers a larger area than a mesa.

• The Tibetan Plateau is known as the 'Roof of the World' due to its high elevation.
• Rural communities have settled on the plateau for generations.

Another term for a plateau, used mostly in geographical or technical descriptions. It is less commonly used in everyday conversation.

• The tableland stretches as far as the eye can see.
• Farmers have found the soil on the tableland to be very fertile.

A geographic feature found in arid regions, characterized by a flat top and steep sides. It is smaller in size compared to a plateau.

• The hiking trail leads to a stunning view from the mesa.
• Ancient civilizations built dwellings on top of the mesa for protection.

Use 'complain' when someone expresses dissatisfaction or annoyance about something. This word is neutral and commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.

• She complained to the manager about the poor service.
• He always complains when he has to do extra work.

Use 'grumble' when describing someone complaining in a low, often indistinct voice. It typically connotes a habitual or mild expression of dissatisfaction.

• He grumbled under his breath about the long wait.
• The employees grumbled about the new policy, but they still followed it.

Use 'whine' to describe someone complaining in a high-pitched, childish, or petulant manner. It usually has a negative connotation and implies that the complaint is annoying or unjustified.

• The child started to whine because he wasn't allowed to have more candy.
• Stop whining about the weather and just dress warmly.