a simple response

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a simple response" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a reply that is straightforward and uncomplicated. Example: "In situations like this, all you need is a simple response to clarify your point."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

May I suggest a simple response?

The New York Times

Mr. Corallos gave a simple response.

The New York Times

Fox News executives had a simple response: What rules?

The New York Times

Heffernan had a simple response: she wanted the money back.

The Guardian

But there's a simple response to both points – so what?

The Guardian - Business

To friends who question his methods and his deliberately slow growth strategy, he has a simple response.

The New York Times

A simple response like "It's traditional to dance like a bull at Jewish weddings," wouldn't cut it this time.

The New York Times

To all of these worries Mr Wahid's friends had a simple response: you don't know Gus Dur.

The Economist

Put to him that all elite footballers are self‑motivating, so this should not have affected Agüero and company, Pellegrini has a simple response.

The Guardian - Sport

The Communist Party, which denounced Mr. Gao when he wrote a play about the 1989 killings of demonstrators at Tiananmen Square, had a simple response.

The New York Times

A simple response to my thank you notes, as well as to why they would not hire me would have been much appreciated.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a simple response" when you want to emphasize that an answer or reaction is straightforward and easy to understand. It often implies a lack of complexity or deliberation.

Common error

Avoid using "a simple response" when a more detailed or nuanced answer is required. Sometimes, a 'simple response' can come across as dismissive or inadequate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a simple response" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the object of a verb (e.g., "gave a simple response") or as a subject complement. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a simple response" is a grammatically correct and common expression used to describe an answer or reaction that is straightforward and uncomplicated. As highlighted by Ludwig, it appears frequently in news and media, as well as in scientific contexts. While it's generally appropriate, avoid overusing it when a more nuanced or detailed explanation is required. Alternatives such as "a straightforward answer" or "an uncomplicated reply" can be used to convey similar meanings with slightly different emphasis. Understanding the contexts and implications of using "a simple response" ensures clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a straightforward answer

Emphasizes clarity and directness in the reply.

an uncomplicated reply

Highlights the lack of complexity in the answer.

a basic answer

Suggests the reply covers only the essential points.

a direct reaction

Focuses on the immediacy and candor of the response.

a plain statement

Indicates the reply is simple and without embellishment.

a facile answer

Implies the response is too easy or superficial.

a minimalist response

Highlights the very few elements in the answer.

a terse reply

Emphasizes the brevity and conciseness of the response.

a succinct answer

Highlights the conciseness and precision of the response.

a clipped response

Implies a brief and somewhat abrupt answer.

FAQs

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

You can use "a simple response" to describe a straightforward answer or reaction. For example, "When asked about his plans, he gave "a simple response": 'I'm retiring'."

What are some alternatives to "a simple response"?

Alternatives to "a simple response" include "a straightforward answer", "an uncomplicated reply", or "a basic answer" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to give "a simple response"?

No, giving "a simple response" is not always appropriate. If the situation requires a detailed or thoughtful answer, a simple response may be perceived as dismissive or inadequate. Always consider the context.

What does it imply when someone gives "a simple response"?

When someone gives "a simple response", it can imply that the issue is straightforward, that they don't want to elaborate, or that they have a very clear and uncomplicated understanding of the situation. The interpretation can depend on the specific situation and the person's tone.