a simple one

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a simple one" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that is uncomplicated or easy to understand, often in contrast to something more complex. Example: "The solution to the problem is a simple one that anyone can grasp with a little explanation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

Just a simple one.

The New Yorker

Or a simple one.

The New York Times - Sports

A simple one, this.

The Guardian - Film

The question, then, became a simple one.

The Guardian

Here's a simple one: gaffers are electricians.

The New York Times

His job was a simple one yesterday.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

"A simple one-pot dinner".

The New Yorker

But it wasn't just a simple, one-time pulse.

The New Yorker

Data were fit to a simple one-phase association.

eLife

This study used a simple one-stage cluster sampling.

BMC Pulmonary Medicine

It is a simple, one-page form.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a simple one", ensure the context clearly indicates what 'one' refers to. Avoid ambiguity by specifying the noun it replaces if needed.

Common error

Avoid repeatedly using "a simple one" in close proximity without providing specific context, as it can make your writing sound repetitive and vague. Instead, vary your language by using synonyms or rephrasing the sentence to provide more specific details.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a simple one" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying an unspecified noun, acting as a predicate adjective or a noun phrase complement. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

16%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a simple one" is a versatile and grammatically correct phrase used to denote ease and lack of complexity. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and frequent appearance across diverse sources, most prominently in news and media. While appropriate in many contexts, ensure the reference of 'one' is clear to avoid ambiguity. For enhanced clarity or formality, consider alternatives like "a straightforward option" or "an easy solution". Avoid overuse by specifying the noun instead of relying on the pronoun 'one' repeatedly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a straightforward option

Replaces 'one' with 'option' and 'simple' with 'straightforward', emphasizing directness and clarity.

an easy solution

Substitutes 'simple' with 'easy' and 'one' with 'solution', focusing on the lack of difficulty in resolving a problem.

a basic approach

Replaces 'simple' with 'basic' and 'one' with 'approach', highlighting the fundamental nature of a method or strategy.

a clear-cut case

Replaces 'simple' with 'clear-cut' and 'one' with 'case', emphasizing the lack of ambiguity or complication in a situation.

an uncomplicated matter

Substitutes 'simple' with 'uncomplicated' and 'one' with 'matter', stressing the absence of complexity or difficulty in a situation.

an elementary task

Replaces 'simple' with 'elementary' and 'one' with 'task', indicating the fundamental or introductory nature of a job or activity.

a rudimentary method

Substitutes 'simple' with 'rudimentary' and 'one' with 'method', highlighting the basic and undeveloped nature of a procedure.

a facile answer

Replaces 'simple' with 'facile', suggesting a superficial or easily achieved response, potentially implying a lack of depth.

a plain choice

Substitutes 'simple' with 'plain' and 'one' with 'choice', emphasizing lack of ornamentation or elaboration.

a streamlined process

Replaces 'simple' with 'streamlined' and 'one' with 'process', implying efficiency and removal of unnecessary steps.

FAQs

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

You can use "a simple one" to refer to something straightforward or uncomplicated, for example, "The solution is "a simple one": just add water."

What are some alternatives to "a simple one"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "an easy solution", "a basic approach", or "a straightforward option".

Is it always clear what 'one' refers to when using "a simple one"?

No, it's crucial to ensure the context makes it clear what 'one' is replacing. If there's any ambiguity, specify the noun to avoid confusion.

Can "a simple one" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "a simple one" is generally acceptable in formal writing, but consider whether a more precise or sophisticated term might be more appropriate depending on the specific context and audience. Alternatives such as "an uncomplicated matter" might fit better.