To keep things simple

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "To keep things simple" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize clarity or ease of understanding in a discussion or explanation. Example: "To keep things simple, let's focus on the main points of the project without getting into too much detail."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

To keep things simple, we assume that the firm has no costs.

Stanford University

To keep things simple, we will change the example slightly.

SEP

To keep things simple, I will discount it for the remainder of this main essay.

SEP

To keep things simple, we've narrowed it down a bit.

HuffPost

To keep things simple, let's examine their email efforts only.

Huffington Post

To keep things simple, we consider a two-level hierarchical structure (Fig. 9).

Plosone

To keep things simple, we chose not to generate times to death from unknown causes.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

On the other hand, the desire may be to 'keep things simple for the readership'.

British Journal of Cancer

But to keep things simple, here's one example.

Forbes

Remember to keep things simple.

WikiHow

We wanted to keep things simple.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing a complex topic, use "To keep things simple" to signal that you'll be focusing on the core aspects, avoiding unnecessary details.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences or paragraphs with "To keep things simple". This can become repetitive and weaken your writing. Instead, vary your introductory phrases or use other techniques to simplify complex information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "To keep things simple" functions as an introductory phrase. It sets the stage for a more straightforward explanation or approach, signaling to the reader that complex details will be omitted for the sake of clarity. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "To keep things simple" serves as a useful introductory phrase to indicate a simplified explanation or approach. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. While common across news, science, and wiki contexts, it's essential to vary sentence structure and consider more formal alternatives, such as "for simplicity's sake", in professional settings. Employing "To keep things simple" effectively helps to focus on core concepts and enhance clarity, thereby improving overall communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

For simplicity's sake

This alternative emphasizes the goal of achieving simplicity. It's slightly more formal.

To simplify matters

Focuses on the action of simplifying, rather than the intention.

To make it easier

This is a more direct and less idiomatic way of expressing the same idea.

For ease of understanding

Highlights the benefit of simplicity, which is easier comprehension.

In the interest of clarity

Emphasizes clarity as the reason for simplification.

To streamline the process

This is specific to simplifying a process, making it more efficient.

Let's keep it concise

Focuses on brevity and avoiding unnecessary details.

In short

Offers a summarization to avoid overwhelming details.

Putting it simply

Highlights that the information is being presented in a straightforward manner.

To put it another way

Offers an alternative explanation, aiming for easier comprehension.

FAQs

How can I use "To keep things simple" in a sentence?

You can use "To keep things simple" to introduce a simplified explanation or approach, such as, "To keep things simple, let's focus on the core features of the product."

What are some alternatives to "To keep things simple"?

Some alternatives include "for simplicity's sake", "to simplify matters", or "to make it easier".

Is it appropriate to use "To keep things simple" in formal writing?

While "To keep things simple" is generally acceptable, more formal alternatives like "for simplicity's sake" or "in the interest of clarity" may be preferred in highly formal contexts.

What is the difference between "To keep things simple" and "In short"?

"To keep things simple" introduces a simplified explanation, while "In short" /s/in+short summarizes previously stated information. They serve different purposes in writing.