Putting it simply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Putting it simply" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to clarify or summarize a complex idea in a straightforward manner. Example: "Putting it simply, the project aims to reduce costs while improving efficiency."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Putting it simply, one needs to subtract the effects of all other causes of productivity improvement to be able to pinpoint changes arising from technology advancement.

Columbia University

Putting it simply, there is always some blocking and tackling necessary before unlocking transformational business insights.

Forbes

Putting it simply, Free is an emotional hot button that immediately reduces the mental barriers for the customer.

TechCrunch

Putting it simply; he's unique, and that's we love him at BBC 6 Music, and we know you feel the same way too.

BBC

Putting it simply: media's great opportunity is to bring the right content to the right person at the right place and time.

TechCrunch

Putting it simply, there are 1.59 million mortgages in a bad or seriously late situation today compared to 1.98 million just one year ago and 4.30 million at its worst in 2009.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

To put it simply: Can Hadoop survive its weird beginning?

Forbes

To put it simply, no.

Independent

You are, to put it simply, screwed.

The New York Times

Mr. Daniels put it simply.

The New York Times

To put it simply, it didn't.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Putting it simply" to introduce a rephrased explanation of a complex topic, especially when transitioning from technical jargon to everyday language. It sets the stage for clarity.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences with "Putting it simply", as it can become repetitive. Use synonyms or vary your sentence structure to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Putting it simply" functions as a discourse marker, specifically an explanatory connector. It signals that the speaker or writer is about to provide a more straightforward or basic explanation of something that may have been presented in a complex or technical way. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Putting it simply" serves as a useful phrase for introducing a more accessible explanation of a complex topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions as an explanatory connector, predominantly in neutral registers like news media and scientific articles. While grammatically correct and commonly understood, avoid overuse for stylistic reasons. Consider using alternatives like "In simpler terms" or "To put it in layman's terms" to avoid repetition. The phrase aims to clarify information, making it easier for the audience to grasp the core concept, without being overly formal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In simpler terms

Focuses on using more basic vocabulary.

To put it in layman's terms

Highlights explaining something to a non-expert audience.

In essence

Emphasizes the core or fundamental nature of what's being explained.

To break it down

Suggests a more detailed and methodical simplification.

In a nutshell

Implies a very concise and brief summary.

To make it clear

Highlights the goal of making something easily understandable.

Stated simply

Emphasizes directness and lack of complication.

In plain English

Focuses on avoiding jargon and technical language.

Essentially

Highlights reducing to fundamental elements.

The long and short of it

Suggests a summary after a longer explanation.

FAQs

What does "Putting it simply" mean?

The phrase "Putting it simply" means explaining something in an easy-to-understand way, often after presenting a more complex or detailed explanation. It signals a simplification is about to follow.

How can I use "Putting it simply" in a sentence?

You can use "Putting it simply" to introduce a clarified or summarized version of a complex idea. For example, "The algorithm is quite complex; "putting it simply", it sorts data based on relevance."

What can I say instead of "Putting it simply"?

You can use alternatives like "In simpler terms", "To put it in layman's terms", or "in a nutshell" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "Putting it simply"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct and commonly used to start a sentence when you intend to offer a simplified explanation or summary of a previous statement.