a simple procedure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a simple procedure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a task or process that is straightforward and easy to follow. Example: "The first step in the project is a simple procedure that anyone can complete without prior experience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's a simple procedure.

The New York Times - Sports

"I was told that this was such a simple procedure.

The New York Times - Arts

They told him the operation was a simple procedure.

The New York Times

It was a simple procedure, as he put it.

The Guardian - Music

"It's a simple procedure," said Dr. Richard S. Koplin, medical director of LaserOne in Manhattan.

The New York Times - Science

A pill-induced abortion, doctors explained, is not a simple procedure.

The New York Times

His wife and four children soon joined him -- a simple procedure at the time.

The New York Times

Sewing tissue is a simple procedure, but I had never tried to do it laparoscopically.

The New Yorker

It is a simple procedure, but it brings a potential danger.

The Economist

In February, a blog discovered that a simple procedure enabled anyone to gain access to funds stored in Google Wallet.

The New York Times

Mac based synching with Address Book is a simple procedure.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a complex task, use "a simple procedure" to highlight a specific, straightforward step within it.

Common error

Avoid using "a simple procedure" when the process involves multiple intricate steps or requires specialized expertise, as it can mislead the audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a simple procedure" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It describes a process or task that is not complex or difficult. As shown by Ludwig, the phrase is often used to assure someone of the ease of a particular action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

35%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a simple procedure" is a common and correct English expression used to describe a process that is not complex or difficult. According to Ludwig AI, it's a versatile phrase applicable in various contexts, from scientific discussions to news reports. Its frequency underscores its utility in everyday language. When using this phrase, ensure that the described process genuinely lacks complexity to avoid misleading your audience. While alternatives like "an uncomplicated process" and "a straightforward method" exist, "a simple procedure" remains a clear and widely understood choice for conveying ease and simplicity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an uncomplicated process

Substitutes "procedure" with "process" and uses "uncomplicated" instead of "simple", emphasizing ease of execution.

a straightforward method

Replaces "procedure" with "method" and uses "straightforward" to highlight directness and lack of complexity.

an easy technique

Employs "technique" in place of "procedure" and "easy" instead of "simple", focusing on the minimal effort required.

a basic operation

Uses "operation" for "procedure" and "basic" for "simple", suggesting a fundamental and uncomplicated action.

a facile approach

Replaces "simple" with "facile" to denote ease and fluency in execution; "approach" substitutes "procedure".

a rudimentary task

Employs "rudimentary" to convey simplicity and "task" instead of "procedure", indicating a basic level of activity.

a painless exercise

Substitutes "procedure" with "exercise" and "simple" with "painless", focusing on the lack of difficulty or discomfort.

a trouble-free way

Replaces "procedure" with "way" and uses "trouble-free" instead of "simple", emphasizing the absence of problems or difficulties.

an effortless undertaking

Substitutes "procedure" with "undertaking" and "simple" with "effortless", stressing the minimal effort required.

an elementary maneuver

Uses "maneuver" in place of "procedure" and "elementary" instead of "simple", indicating a basic or fundamental action.

FAQs

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

You can use "a simple procedure" to describe a task or process that is easy to follow and doesn't involve complex steps. For example, "Adding a new contact to your phone is "a simple procedure"."

What are some alternatives to "a simple procedure"?

Alternatives include phrases like "an uncomplicated process", "a straightforward method", or "an easy technique", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always accurate to describe something as "a simple procedure"?

No, it's important to use the phrase accurately. If a process involves hidden complexities or requires specialized knowledge, it's better to avoid calling it ""a simple procedure"" to avoid misleading the audience.

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

In technical writing, use "a simple procedure" to describe a step-by-step process that is easy to understand and execute. Be sure to provide clear and concise instructions to support the claim of simplicity.