plain-clothes man
Definition
- Noun: A "plain-clothes man" refers to a law enforcement officer (such as a detective or police officer) who wears ordinary civilian clothing instead of a uniform, often to conduct surveillance or investigations without being easily identified.
Usage Examples
- (An undercover police officer in civilian attire.)
- (A detective or officer not in uniform.)
Advanced Usage
- "Plain-clothes man" vs. "plain-clothes officer": The term is often used interchangeably, but "plain-clothes man" is slightly more informal and gender-specific. In modern usage, "plain-clothes officer" is preferred for inclusivity.
- The plain-clothes man identified himself before making the arrest. (He showed his badge to confirm his role.)
Variants and Related Words
- Plain-clothes (adj): describing clothing that is not a uniform.
- He works in plain-clothes security. (He does not wear a uniform.)
- Plain-clothes officer (n): a gender-neutral term for a law enforcement agent in civilian dress.
- The plain-clothes officer blended in with the crowd.
Synonyms
- Undercover agent: a person who works secretly to gather information.
- Detective: a police officer who investigates crimes, often in plain clothes.
- Secret police: law enforcement officers who operate covertly.
Related Idioms
- "In plain clothes": wearing ordinary, non-uniform attire.
- The inspector arrived in plain clothes to avoid drawing attention.
Phrasal Verbs (Not directly applicable)
- No common phrasal verbs are associated with "plain-clothes man."