To simplify matters

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "To simplify matters" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that you are making a situation easier or more straightforward. Example: "To simplify matters, we decided to break the project into smaller tasks that can be completed individually."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

To simplify matters, use only the "Single" status category for all tax calculations.

The New York Times

To simplify matters, I decided to look at passes and shots in open play — excluding free kicks and corners.

The New Yorker

To simplify matters, a center has been set up at Pier 94, where families can apply in a single step for aid.

The New York Times

To simplify matters our explanations refer to a basic multi-particle system of hard spheres, but can be extended easily to a wide variety of possible models.

Journal of Computational Physics

(To simplify matters, physicists often flip the fraction upside down, expressing alpha as its inverse, 137 -- or, to be precise, 137.03599976).

The New York Times

To simplify matters the researchers left out other copies of DNA found the cellular structures such as the power-producing mitochondria found in all life-forms, and the photosynthetic chloroplasts of plants and algae.

Independent

To simplify matters, there were two main periods in the history of this armour, equally true of the Japanese warriors themselves, referred to as bushi before the coming of the Tokugawa shoguns in 1603: the start of the Edo era.

The Guardian

To simplify matters, if we annualise the number of relocations, this is how the UK compares with several other EU member states: Moreover, the commission's plan only focuses on relocations from Italy, Greece and Hungary.

The Guardian

To simplify matters, the price is paid is [sic] consistent across the sites – hence why in the case of Mr Ceylin [sic], it is shown as £193, $193 and €193".

The Guardian - Money

To simplify matters, all potential conflicts should be reportable on the federal site, and that site should then be checked by institutions and by journal editors as a matter of course.

The New York Times

To simplify matters, the team took a tack pioneered in the late 1970s called lattice QCD.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "To simplify matters" to signal a shift towards a more concise explanation, particularly when dealing with complex topics. It prepares the reader for a more digestible version of the information.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences with "To simplify matters", as it can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your transitional phrases to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "To simplify matters" functions as a transitional phrase. It signals a shift towards a more concise or straightforward explanation, often used to clarify complex topics. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "To simplify matters" is a versatile transitional phrase commonly used across various contexts, including science, news, and business. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and serves to introduce clearer, more concise explanations. It's a useful tool for writers aiming to enhance understanding and reduce complexity, though it's essential to avoid overuse to maintain writing fluidity. Related phrases like "for simplicity's sake" or "to put it simply" can provide alternatives for varying expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

For simplicity's sake

This alternative emphasizes the goal of achieving simplicity, similar to the original phrase.

To put it simply

Focuses on explaining something in an easy-to-understand manner.

For the sake of clarity

Highlights the aim of making something clear and understandable.

To make things easier

A more informal way to express the desire to reduce complexity.

In simpler terms

Indicates a restatement of something in a less complicated way.

To streamline matters

Emphasizes efficiency and the removal of unnecessary steps.

Let's simplify

Direct and action-oriented, suggesting immediate simplification.

For ease of understanding

Focuses on the audience's ability to comprehend the information.

To cut to the chase

Suggests getting straight to the most important information, omitting details.

In short

Indicates a brief summary or condensation of information.

FAQs

How can I use "To simplify matters" in a sentence?

Use "To simplify matters" to introduce a more straightforward explanation of a complex topic. For example, "To simplify matters, we will focus on the key features of the system".

What are some alternatives to "To simplify matters"?

You can use alternatives such as "For simplicity's sake", "to put it simply", or "for the sake of clarity" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "To simplify matters" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to indicate that you are going to present information in a more concise or understandable way, often after discussing complex details.

Is "To simplify matters" formal or informal?

"To simplify matters" is suitable for both formal and informal writing, though it's often used in more structured or explanatory contexts such as reports, articles, and presentations.