a simple concept

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a simple concept" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an idea or principle that is easy to understand or straightforward. Example: "The idea of gravity is a simple concept that can be explained to children."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's a simple concept.

The Guardian - Arts

It was a simple concept, artfully done.

The New York Times - Books

It is a simple concept for a complicated challenge.

The New York Times - Sports

Why can't those dumb bitches grasp such a simple concept?

The Guardian - Opinion

It's so beautiful and such a simple concept.

The Guardian - Music

His sculptures also come out of a simple concept.

The New York Times

Sharing leave is a simple concept, in theory.

The Guardian

His reasons boiled down to a simple concept.

The New York Times

It's a simple concept, but spending less requires discipline.

Independent

It's such a simple concept but makes such a massive difference".

The Guardian

It is an affliction that can turn a simple concept like justice upside-down.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use “a simple concept” to highlight the underlying ease of understanding, even if the application or implications are more intricate.

Common error

Avoid using "a simple concept" to describe things that are inherently obvious. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound condescending or patronizing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a simple concept" functions as a noun phrase, where "simple" modifies the noun "concept". It commonly serves as a subject complement, an object complement, or an appositive. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase indicates an idea that is easy to understand.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a simple concept" is a commonly used phrase to describe an idea or principle that is easy to understand. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, including News & Media and Science. While versatile, be mindful of potential overuse in overly simplistic situations. Alternative phrases, such as "a straightforward idea" or "an easy concept", can provide variety. Its frequent appearance in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian underscores its acceptance in formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an easy concept

Highlights the ease of understanding the concept.

an uncomplicated notion

Stresses the absence of complexity in the idea.

a straightforward idea

Focuses on the directness and lack of complication of the idea.

a transparent concept

Highlights the lack of hidden complexities and the easiness to perceive every facet of concept itself.

a clear idea

Highlights the clarity and lack of ambiguity.

a digestible concept

Implies the concept is easy to process and understand.

a basic principle

Emphasizes that the concept is fundamental and foundational.

a plain concept

Emphasizes the simplicity and lack of embellishment.

a rudimentary concept

Suggests the concept is at an early stage of development or is very basic.

a manageable concept

Focuses on the ease of handling or dealing with the concept.

FAQs

How can I use "a simple concept" in a sentence?

You can use "a simple concept" to introduce an idea that is easy to understand, such as, "The idea of supply and demand is "a simple concept" that drives market economies".

What can I say instead of "a simple concept"?

You can use alternatives like "a straightforward idea", "an easy concept", or "a basic principle" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a simplistic concept" instead of "a simple concept"?

While both phrases refer to something easy to understand, "a simplistic concept" often carries a negative connotation, implying that something is oversimplified and potentially inaccurate. "A simple concept" generally does not have this negative implication.

When is it appropriate to use "a simple concept" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that the basic understanding of something is not difficult, even if its implications or applications are complex. For example, "While quantum physics can be daunting, the underlying principle of superposition is "a simple concept"".