a simple list of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a simple list of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when introducing a straightforward enumeration of items or points. Example: "In this report, I will provide a simple list of the key findings from our research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Carter these days... I have made a simple list of my suggestions: 1. Avoid jackrabbit starts.

The New Yorker

It's amazing to me how a simple list of words can inspire so many ideas.

The New York Times

A simple list of the top-selling 100 titles would show a total of 17,681,836 copies sold.

The Guardian - Books

But isn't strange how we can't keep a simple list of names when it interferes with making profit.

The Guardian - Opinion

A weblog back then was either an online diary or a simple list of recommended links, much like the ever popular Drudge Report.

The Guardian - Tech

In flat databases, records are organized according to a simple list of entities; many simple databases for personal computers are flat in structure.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Is there a way to make Mail look like it did in Snow Leopard, with just a simple list of messages in the window?

The New York Times

The menu reads like a simple list of soups, salads and mains, but the reality can be more arthouse than farmhouse.

Independent

One of the things that's happened in Islam, especially post-oil and post-Iranian revolution is that Islam has been reduced on many levels to a simple list of dos and don'ts.

The Guardian - Arts

Several years ago, Peter Pronovost, a Johns Hopkins physician, developed a simple list of five steps that intensive-care doctors should take before inserting an IV line, in order to prevent the introduction of bacteria.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Some doctors mentioned thriving on the 'challenge' of such work, and that there was nothing worse than 'a simple list of tonsils'.

Human Resources for Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a simple list of", ensure that the items in the list are indeed simple and easy to understand. Avoid complex or convoluted items within the list, maintain clarity and conciseness.

Common error

Avoid including items that require extensive explanation or are not immediately understandable. A simple list should be easily digestible; if items require significant clarification, consider breaking them down further or using a different format.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a simple list of" functions primarily as an introductory phrase. It signals the presentation of information in an organized, enumerated format. This is verified by Ludwig which confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a simple list of" is a versatile phrase used to introduce enumerated information in a clear and organized manner. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across diverse contexts, with a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. The phrase is prevalent in News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources, signaling its widespread acceptance. When employing this phrase, ensure the list items are indeed simple and easily understood to maintain clarity. Common alternatives include "a basic list of", "a concise list of", and "a straightforward list of".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a basic list of

Replaces "simple" with "basic", indicating a fundamental or elementary list.

a concise list of

Substitutes "simple" with "concise", suggesting a list that is brief and comprehensive.

a straightforward list of

Replaces "simple" with "straightforward", implying a list that is clear and easy to understand.

a clear list of

Substitutes "simple" with "clear", emphasizing the list's understandability.

a short list of

Replaces "simple" with "short", focusing on the list's brevity.

a brief inventory of

Replaces "list" with "inventory", implying a more comprehensive enumeration, while "brief" replaces "simple".

a rudimentary list of

Substitutes "simple" with "rudimentary", suggesting a basic or initial list.

an itemized list of

Replaces "simple" with "itemized", indicating a list where each element is clearly distinguished.

a catalog of

Replaces "list" with "catalog", suggesting a more structured or comprehensive list.

a compilation of

Replaces "list" with "compilation", implying that the items have been gathered together.

FAQs

How can I use "a simple list of" in a sentence?

Use "a simple list of" to introduce a straightforward enumeration of items, ideas, or steps. For example, "Here's "a simple list of" ingredients you'll need for the recipe."

What are some alternatives to "a simple list of"?

You can use alternatives like "a basic list of", "a concise list of", or "a straightforward list of" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

It's appropriate when you want to present information in an easily digestible, uncomplicated manner. Use it when the items you are listing are self-explanatory and do not require extensive elaboration.

Is there a difference between "a simple list of" and "an itemized list of"?

While both present information in a list format, ""a simple list of"" implies a basic, uncomplicated collection, whereas "an itemized list of" suggests that each item is distinctly accounted for, possibly with additional details.